New Delhi: The Indian Embassy in Syria's capital, Damascus, remains operational despite the volatile situation and is maintaining contact with all Indian nationals in the country, according to sources. Officials have confirmed that all Indian citizens in Syria are safe and assured that the embassy is available to provide assistance.
Following reports that Islamist-led rebels have claimed control of Damascus and announced the removal of President Bashar al-Assad, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had earlier issued an advisory urging Indian nationals to leave Syria at the earliest opportunity via commercial flights.
"In light of the current developments in Syria, Indian nationals are strongly advised against traveling to the country until further notice," the MEA stated.
The advisory emphasized that those still in Syria should stay in close communication with the Indian Embassy via the emergency helpline (+963 993385973, also available on WhatsApp) or email ([email protected]). It further urged Indians to exercise extreme caution, limit their movements, and prioritize their safety.
As of now, approximately 90 Indians are residing in Syria, including 14 employed by United Nations agencies.
India's MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, noted, "We are monitoring the rapidly evolving situation closely, particularly the recent escalation in fighting in northern Syria."
Meanwhile, rebels announced that Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, leader of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), had arrived in Damascus after their forces captured the capital. Identified by his real name, Ahmed al-Sharaa, a statement shared on Telegram claimed Jolani had prostrated in gratitude upon reaching the city.
The rebels declared the "tyrant" Assad’s regime over as Damascus fell after a swift campaign spanning less than two weeks. Assad’s whereabouts remain unknown, with reports suggesting he fled the country.
Speaking on state television, now under rebel control, Jolani vowed to continue the revolution initiated in 2011, when peaceful protests against Assad's rule were met with brutal crackdowns, sparking a conflict that engulfed Syria in foreign interventions and internal strife.