US. cautions citizens about travelling to Syria

warns of heightened terrorist attacks

The US embassy in Syria on Saturday, March 29, 2025, warned its citizens of an “increased possibility” of attacks during the upcoming holiday marking the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

“The US Department of State cautions US citizens of the increased possibility of attacks during Eid al-Fitr holiday, which could target embassies, international organisations, and Syrian public institutions in Damascus,” said a statement posted on the embassy website late Friday.

It also warned American citizens against travelling to Syria due to the civil unrest, kidnapping, hostage-taking, armed conflict, and unjust detentions in Syria.

“Methods of attack could include… individual attackers, armed gunmen, or the use of explosive devices,” it added.

Although it diid not elaborate on specific threats or who may be behind them.

Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the Ramadan fasting month, is expected begin in the coming days but its exact timing will be determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, in accordance with the Muslim lunar calendar.

The situation in Syria is extremely volatile, with various terrorist groups, including ISIS and al-Qaida affiliates operating in the country.

The Syrian government has also been known to detain and mistreat US citizens, and the US government is said to have limited ability to provide emergency services to its citizens in Syria.

Additionally, the US government has suspended operations in Syria since 2012, and the Czech Republic serves as the protecting power for US interests in Syria.

However, even the Czech Republic’s ability to provide assistance is extremely limited.

The advice put forward for persons considering travelling to Syria despite the warnings.

It says such persons should:

• register with the US Department of State’s Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important safety and security updates,
• purchase medical evacuation insurance to cover emergency medical expenses,
• stay informed about local conditions and follow local news and authorities’ instructions.

If a US citizen travels to Syria despite the level 4 travel advisory and gets caught up in a difficult situation, the US Department of State will try to provide assistance.

However, the Department’s ability to help may be severely limited due to various factors:

• Limited diplomatic presence: TheUSEmbassyinDamascussuspendedoperations in 2012, and the US government has limited diplomatic presence in Syria
• Restricted access: the Syrian government may restrict or deny access to US citizens, making it difficult for the Department to provide assistance.
• Security risks: The US Department of State may face significant security risks when attempting to assist US citizens in Syria, which could limit their ability to provide help.

Despite these challenges, the US Department of State will try to:

•  Provide information and guidance: The Department will offer information and guidance to help US citizens understand the risks and make informed decisions.
• Assist with emergency situations: The Department will try to assist with emergency situations, such as medical evacuations or helping US citizens escape from danger.
• Work with local authorities: The Department may work with local authorities, such as the Syrian government or other countries’ embassies, to try to secure the release of detained US citizens.

However, it is essential to note that:

• The US government may not be able to evacuate US citizens: Due to the security situation and limited diplomatic presence, the US government may not be able to evacuate US citizens from Syria.
• US citizens may be subject to Syrian laws and regulations: US citizens who travel to Syria despite the advisory may be subject to Syrian laws and regulations, which can be harsh and unpredictable.

In summary, while the US Department of State will try to provide assistance to US citizens who travel to Syria despite the advisory, their ability to help may be severely limited.

It is essential for US citizens to take the Level 4 travel advisory seriously and avoid travelling to Syria.

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