Are Americans subject to harassment or targeted for physical or verbal attacks?
The vast majority of Syrians are very warm and hospitable towards individual Americans, who are generally welcomed and treated with respect by everyday people. However, during periods of increased tension in the region, incidents of harassment may occur. Women may also be subject to mostly verbal forms of harassment. The Syrian government conducts intense physical and electronic surveillance of both Syrian citizens and foreign visitors. Americans visiting Syria should be aware that any encounter with a Syrian citizen could be subject to scrutiny by the General Intelligence Directorate (GID).
