U.S. warns of potential attacks in Syria during Eid celebrations

Syria has been facing a volatile security situation following the ousting of President Bashar Assad by insurgent groups led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in early December. As the Eid el-Fitr holiday approaches, the U.S. State Department has issued warnings regarding the possibility of attacks targeting embassies, international organizations, and public institutions in the capital, Damascus. The holiday might start on Sunday depending upon the sighting of the new moon. In recent weeks, Syrian authorities have apprehended several militant cells allegedly planning attacks within the country, contributing to the heightened alert around the festivities. Despite the defeat of the Islamic State group in 2019, the threat persists due to sleeper cells still active in the region, especially in northeast Syria, which is controlled by U.S.-backed Kurdish-led forces. This alarming situation comes as thousands of civilians, displaced by ongoing violence, prepare to celebrate Eid in tent camps, further complicating the humanitarian crisis. With the increasing tension and risk of violence, many are apprehensive about the safety of celebrations and the likelihood of attacks. The U.S. has previously voiced concerns over the security landscape in Syria, indicating a need for vigilance among its citizens present in the region. As the security forces continue their operations against potential threats and militant activities, the focus turns towards ensuring safety during significant cultural and religious observances like Eid. Traveling and public gatherings during this period could pose inherent risks, according to officials. The broader implications of these warnings are significant, as they reflect the ongoing instability in Syria since the civil war and the continuing efforts by jihadi groups to exploit moments of public festivities for attacks. The intersection of religious observance and security risk exemplifies the plight faced by Syrians in a post-war context. As the situation evolves, the U.S. remains committed to monitoring developments in Syria and advising its citizens accordingly during times of increased threat and uncertainty.