U.S. Issues Travel Warning for Syria Due to Increased Terror Risk during Eid al-Fitr
The U.S. Embassy in Syria has warned citizens of an increased risk of attacks during the Eid al-Fitr holiday. Travelers are advised against visiting Syria due to significant risks such as terrorism and civil unrest. Security remains precarious in the country, with recent reports of weapons seizures and thwarted Islamic State activities highlighting ongoing challenges. Citizens of France have also received similar warnings.
The United States Embassy in Syria has issued a warning to its citizens regarding an increased risk of terrorist attacks coinciding with the upcoming Eid al-Fitr holiday, which marks the conclusion of Ramadan. The Department of State cautions that these attacks could potentially target embassies, international organizations, and public institutions within Damascus. Potential methods of attack may involve individual assailants, armed attackers, or explosive devices.
Eid al-Fitr is expected to commence in the near future, though its precise timing will depend on the observation of the crescent moon in alignment with the Islamic lunar calendar. Security conditions in Syria continue to be unstable as Islamist factions overthrew longstanding ruler Bashar al-Assad in December following 14 years of conflict that started with severe suppression of anti-government protests in 2011.
Given the considerable risks of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict, and wrongful detention, Washington strongly advises against travel to Syria. The U.S. embassy has been closed since 2012, further complicating the situation for American citizens in the region. In light of the heightened threat, a French diplomatic representative has confirmed that French citizens in Syria have also been cautioned about the situation.
Additionally, a United Nations employee disclosed that personnel from international organizations in Syria had been notified about potential public gatherings and advised to take precautionary measures in the forthcoming week. The ongoing civil strife in Syria has led to an environment rife with weapons and various armed groups, including jihadists.
The transitional authorities in Syria face significant challenges in maintaining security in a country characterized by ethnic and religious diversity. Recently, Syria’s interior ministry reported a security operation in Homs, where forces discovered a hideout associated with remnants of the Assad regime and seized weapons intended for uncertain terrorist activities. Last month, authorities apprehended a suspected Islamic State commander linked to a thwarted attack on a prominent Shiite shrine near Damascus, marking the first time the new authorities claimed to have successfully averted an IS assault.
Although U.S.-backed Kurdish forces achieved a territorial victory against IS in 2019, the group continues to have a presence, particularly in Syria’s extensive desert regions.
In summary, the U.S. Embassy has highlighted an increased risk of attacks during the forthcoming Eid al-Fitr holiday in Syria, urging its citizens to remain vigilant. The warning stems from ongoing instability following decades of conflict and underscores the severe risks associated with traveling to the region. With government efforts to enhance security met with challenges, the situation in Syria continues to pose significant dangers. Citizens of other nations, including France, have also been advised to exercise caution in light of the current threat level.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
