Iraq calls on citizens in Syria to return home

BAGHDAD - Reuters

A handout picture released by the Syrian opposition's Shaam News Network on July 17, 2012 shows destruction in the Juret al-Shayyah neighbourhood of the Syrian central city of Homs on July 16. AFP photo

Iraq called on its citizens living in Syria to return home because of escalating violence in its neighbor today.

The Iraqi cabinet voiced concern about the "increasing incidents of murder and assault on Iraqis living in Syria," government spokesman Ali al-Dabbagh said in a statement.

"The Iraqi government calls on them to come home," the statement said, adding that Iraqi authorities would secure all means for their return from Syria.