MP Demands Travel Agency Checks After Syria Stranding

mail@newsofbahrain.com

An MP demanded tougher checks on travel agents after citizens were left stranded in Syria as security fears grew.

Jalal Kadhim Al Mahfoodh said he was in direct contact with Bahrain’s ambassador in Damascus to check on those affected and track efforts to bring them home.

‘I hope they all return safely to Bahrain,’ he said. Mr Al Mahfoodh said travel firms must do far more than sell tickets.

‘Their job does not end with booking a flight,’ he said. ‘They must tell travellers about the rules, security steps and risks in the country they are visiting.’

He said travellers also had a duty to check the rules and follow them.

He said trips to countries facing unrest should only proceed once all papers are in order, safe hotels are booked, and clear advice has been given. ‘Passenger safety and comfort must come before profit,’ Mr Al Mahfoodh said.

He called for closer checks on travel and tourism firms to protect Bahrainis abroad and stop such cases happening again.