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FCO: Foreign Office urges British nationals to leave Syria immediately

20th June 2011 The UK Foreign Office have released the following update:

It is highly unlikely the British Embassy will be able to provide a normal consular service in the event of a further breakdown in law and order. British nationals should leave now by commercial means while these are still operating.

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

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has been advising against all travel to Syria and advising British nationals with no pressing need to remain in country to leave since 24 April. We have now extended our advice to read as follows:

British nationals should leave now by commercial means whilst these are still operating. Those who choose to remain in Syria, or to visit against our advice should be aware that it is highly unlikely that the British Embassy in Damascus would be able to provide a normal consular service in the event of a further breakdown in law and order and increased violent civil disorder. Evacuation options would be limited because of likely communication and travel restrictions.

It is important that British nationals in Syria maintain a close watch on the situation and take responsibility for their own safety and security, making contingency plans accordingly. Our advice is very clear, because of the current situation, we advise against all travel to Syria. We ask British nationals to heed this advice and leave the country now.