U.S. Urges Citizens to Leave Syria

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Syrian man in U.S.

The United States urged its citizens to leave Syria due to increased possibility of attacks during Eid al-Fitr holiday.

The U.S. Department of State said in a statement:  "The U.S. Department of State cautions U.S. citizens of the increased possibility of attacks during Eid al-Fitr holiday, which could target embassies, international organizations, and Syrian public institutions in Damascus."

"Methods of attack could include, but are not limited to, individual attackers, armed gunmen, or the use of explosive devices," the statement added.

It further stated: "The U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisory for Syria is at Level 4: Do Not Travel.  This advisory remains in effect due to the significant risks of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, hostage-taking, armed conflict, and unjust detention."

Adding: "The U.S. Embassy in Damascus suspended its operations in 2012.  The U.S. government is unable to provide any routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Syria.  The Czech Republic serves as the protecting power for U.S. interests in Syria."

"U.S. citizens in Syria who are in need of emergency assistance should contact the U.S. Interests Section of the Embassy of the Czech Republic," it said.



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