India Evacuates 75 Nationals from Syria

by The_unmuteenglish

New Delhi, 11 December 2024: India successfully evacuated 75 of its citizens from Syria on Tuesday, following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad’s government by rebel forces.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed the operation on Wednesday, emphasizing the swift response to the rapidly deteriorating security situation in the conflict-stricken nation.

According to the MEA, the evacuees, including 44 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir stranded in Saida Zainab, crossed safely into Lebanon and will soon return to India via commercial flights. “The safety and security of Indian nationals abroad is our highest priority,” the MEA stated, highlighting the coordination between India’s embassies in Damascus and Beirut.

The operation comes in the wake of a significant power shift in Syria. Rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) seized control of Damascus, ending Bashar al-Assad’s nearly 14-year rule and dismantling the Assad family’s five-decade-long political dominance. Assad has reportedly fled to Russia, seeking asylum.

The MEA also advised Indian nationals still in Syria to remain in contact with the Embassy in Damascus for updates and assistance. Emergency helpline numbers (+963 993385973) and email (hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in) have been provided for urgent communication.

“The evacuees are now safe and will return home soon. We continue to monitor the situation closely,” the ministry assured, reiterating its commitment to supporting Indian citizens.

As the crisis unfolds, India has called for a peaceful and inclusive political transition in Syria. “India supports a resolution led by the Syrian people and will continue to engage constructively,” the MEA added.

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