The US Embassy in Syria is calling on Americans in war-torn Syria to evacuate immediately or prepare for “extended evacuation.”
The warning was issued as the security situation in Syria “remains unstable and unpredictable, with armed conflict and terrorism occurring across Syria” following the ouster of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, the embassy said. said in a statement on Monday.
“Americans should leave Syria if possible. Those who cannot leave should have emergency plans in place and be prepared to evacuate the country for an extended period of time.”
The embassy ceased operations in 2012 and is “not conducting regular consular services,” the embassy's website states. In its latest advisory, the State Department advises Americans to avoid traveling to Syria “due to the risks of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping and hostage taking, and armed conflict.”
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People gather in Umayyad Square in Damascus, Syria, on December 8, waving guns to celebrate the fall of the Syrian regime. (Ali Haji Suleiman/Getty Images)
“The U.S. government is unable to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. nationals in Syria,” the embassy said Monday. “Americans living in Syria who need emergency assistance leaving the country should contact the U.S. embassy in the country they plan to enter.”
The embassy also advised Americans remaining in Syria to keep their cellphones charged in case of an emergency and to “closely monitor the news for the latest developments that may impact domestic security.” It recommends that the latest information be factored into travel plans and activities.
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Syrian fighters shout at suspected looters at a housing complex belonging to former President Bashar al-Assad military officer in the village of Husseiniyah on the outskirts of Damascus, Syria, on Sunday, December 15th. (AP//Leo Correa)
President Assad fled to Russia earlier this month after rebels stormed the Syrian capital Damascus.
He issued a statement on Monday that read in part: “I have never sought the position for personal gain, but for the national project, supported by the faith of the Syrian people who believed in its vision. I have always thought of myself as the custodian of the
Syrian fighters walk to participate in the first celebratory demonstration after Friday prayers since the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad in Damascus's central square on Friday, December 13. (AP/Leo Correa)
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President Assad added: “I have had unwavering faith in their will and ability to defend the country, protect its institutions and support their choices until the last moment.”
FOX News' Simon Owen contributed to this report.
