Amid the unfolding crisis in Syria, where the government collapsed Sunday after over two decades of President Bashar al-Assad’s rule, Indian authorities have confirmed the safety of all Indian nationals within the country. The Indian embassy in Damascus remains fully operational, providing crucial support and maintaining contact with its citizens.
According to government sources, approximately 90 Indian nationals are currently in Syria. This figure includes 14 individuals employed by various United Nations organizations. The embassy is actively engaging with each individual to ensure their well-being and provide assistance as needed. “The Embassy is in touch with all Indian nationals, and they are safe,” a source confirmed to PTI.
This assurance comes as the Syrian government’s fall marked a significant turning point in the country’s long-running conflict. Islamist rebels seized power following the reported departure of President Assad. His whereabouts remain undisclosed, leaving the country’s future uncertain and marking the end of his family’s half-century reign. Reports suggest Assad fled Damascus early Sunday morning, boarding a plane for an unknown destination.
Russia, a key ally of the Assad regime, acknowledged Assad’s departure but provided no information on his location or whether he had sought refuge in Russia. The Russian Foreign Ministry released a statement suggesting Assad’s departure was the result of negotiations, claiming he “resigned from the presidency and left the country, giving instructions for a peaceful transfer of power.” The statement however remains unverified.
In anticipation of the escalating situation, the Indian government issued a travel advisory on Friday urging Indian nationals to avoid all travel to Syria until further notice. The Ministry of External Affairs strongly advised against travel, emphasizing the precarious security conditions. The advisory also provided contact information for the Indian embassy in Damascus and urged those currently in Syria to exercise caution, restrict their movements, and consider leaving via commercial flights if possible. The embassy’s emergency helpline number (available also via WhatsApp) and email address (hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in) were publicized to aid Indian citizens in contact.
The situation remains fluid and highly dynamic. As the dust settles in Syria, the international community watches closely, awaiting further developments and assessing the long-term implications of this significant geopolitical shift.
