Syrian civil war's unbridled violence continues (update)

In the past 2 years, between 60 and 70 thousand people have been killed in the on-going civil war that shows no signs of ending anytime soon. Sometimes one side makes some gains, such as the rebel taking of the city of Raqqa, only to have retaliation by the Syrian air force. Occasionally, the fight reaches central Damascus where a car bomb was exploded. The city of Aleppo is being reduced to ashes as fighting continues there. Meanwhile, the flight of Syrian refugees continues to strain relief efforts in neighbouring countries.

Travellers should avoid all travel to Syria.