04 Apr 2021 | 03:39 AM UTC
Syria: Authorities in Autonomous Region reimpose COVID-19 restrictions as of April 4 /update 5
Authorities in Syria's Autonomous Region reimpose COVID-19 restrictions as of April 4 due to increased COVID-19 activity.
Event
Authorities in the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (NES) have reimposed COVID-19 restrictions as of April 4 following an increase in cases. The region's border crossings are closed except for humanitarian cases and commercial traffic. Major markets and bazaars are also closed, while restaurants can only open for takeaway orders. All large gatherings such as weddings, funerals, and conferences are banned. Authorities have also made the wearing of facemasks mandatory in public places.
Additionally, from April 6-12, authorities will impose a full curfew in the cities of Al Hasakah, Qamishli, and Raqqa. Bakeries, hospitals, and shops selling food, fuel, or medicine are exempt from the restriction. In the rest of the region, a daily 16:00-06:00 curfew will be in place during this period.
In the rest of the country, the Syrian government announced that it would close educational institutions from April 5. The wearing of facemasks remains mandatory in public institutions, markets, and on public transportation. Authorities will also close tourist facilities and restaurants that do not abide by safe distancing guidelines.
There are currently no restrictions on travel between governorates or international travel. Syria's air, land, and sea borders are open for travelers. All travelers to Syria must test negative for COVID-19 not more than 96 hours before departure.
Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.
