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FCO: British nationals advised to leave Syria

24th April 2011 The UK Foreign Office have released the following update:

The Foreign Office advises all British nationals to leave Syria while commercial airlines are still flying following the rapid deterioration in the security situation.

Demonstrations in Syria 25 March 2011. Photo by Getty Images.

In light of the rapid deterioration in the security situation in Syria, we have changed our travel advice for Syria. We strongly advise all British nationals to leave the country while commercial airlines are still flying, unless they have a pressing need to remain. Given the situation on the ground, it is highly unlikely that the British Embassy would be able to provide a normal consular service in the event of a further breakdown of law and order and increased violent civil disorder. British nationals should therefore plan accordingly.

The latest amendment to our travel advice reflects the increasing seriousness of the situation.

Foreign Secretary William Hague said:

“I deplore the increasing violence in Syria, and am appalled by the killing of demonstrators by Syrian security forces. Further information has come to light about the extent of Friday’s violence, despite the attempts of the Syrian authorities to hide it from the world. The Syrian authorities must act quickly and decisively to calm this dangerous situation and can only do so by responding to the legitimate demands of the Syrian people. I advise all British nationals in Syria to leave the country, unless they have a pressing need to remain. The safety of British nationals is always our primary concern. Airlines are still running scheduled services with capacity available.”

British nationals resident in or visiting Syria are strongly encouraged to register with us. You can do this by: