India Evacuates 75 Nationals from Turbulent Syria

Amid a deepening power crisis and escalating conflict in Syria, India evacuated 75 of its nationals from the war-torn country on Tuesday. The operation came just two days after rebel forces overthrew President Bashar al-Assad's authoritarian regime.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) coordinated the evacuation through the Indian embassies in Damascus and Beirut, following a detailed assessment of the security situation. In a late-night statement, the MEA confirmed the successful evacuation.

Press release: Evacuation of Indian Nationals from Syria ⬇️https://t.co/7bESmhpKK2

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) December 10, 2024

“The Government of India today evacuated 75 Indian nationals from Syria, following recent developments in that country,” the statement read.

Details of the Evacuation

The evacuees safely crossed into Lebanon and are expected to return to India on available commercial flights. Among those rescued were 44 'zaireen' pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir who had been stranded in Saida Zainab.

The MEA emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety of Indian citizens abroad and urged those still in Syria to maintain close contact with the Indian Embassy in Damascus.

“The government will continue to closely monitor the situation,” the MEA assured, reiterating its priority on the security of Indian nationals overseas.

Syrian Crisis Escalates

The evacuation follows a dramatic turn of events in Syria. Rebel forces seized Damascus after capturing key cities and towns, leading to the collapse of the Syrian government on Sunday. President Bashar al-Assad fled the country and is reportedly seeking asylum in Russia.

The rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) now controls Damascus, bringing an end to the Assad family’s five-decade rule. Assad’s nearly 14-year tenure was marked by a brutal civil war, widespread bloodshed, and the suppression of political dissent.

India Advocates Peaceful Resolution

In response to the developments, the MEA on Monday reiterated India’s support for a peaceful and inclusive political process driven by the Syrian people. The government remains engaged in monitoring the situation closely.