The Syrian authorities have ordered restrictions on travel by military-age men, according to pro-opposition media outlets.
The reports over the weekend said the move was spelled out in a memorandum addressed to border and immigration personnel, and dated last week. It stipulates that all males must receive special permission to leave the country, even if they have completed their period military service and are still eligible to serve in the reserves, which extends to the age of 40.
Those affected by the decision must obtain permission from army recruitment offices, the reports said.
State media last week denied rumors that a “general mobilization” had been ordered in the wake of severe military manpower shortages, and the loss of hundreds of soldiers who were either killed or captured by rebels in Idlib province, when a large base was overrun.
