News Brief
India Evacuates 75 Nationals, Including 44 J&K Pilgrims, From War-Torn Syria As Rebels Take Control
Indian nationals evacuated from Syria
At least 75 Indian nationals have been successfully evacuated from Syria, where the rebel forces have overthrown the Bashar al-Assad regime and are preparing to establish their own government.
The Ministry of External Affairs announced late Tuesday (10 December) that the evacuees have safely reached Lebanon and will soon travel to India via commercial flights.
Among the evacuees were 44 pilgrims, referred to as 'zaireen,' from Jammu and Kashmir. They had been stranded at Saida Zainab, according to the ministry.
"The Government of India today evacuated 75 Indian nationals from Syria, following recent developments in that country. The evacuees included 44 ‘zaireen’ from Jammu & Kashmir who were stranded at Saida Zainab. All Indian nationals have safely crossed over to Lebanon and will return by available commercial flights to India," the MEA said.
The evacuation, coordinated by the embassies of India in Damascus and Beirut, was put into effect following our assessment of the security situation and requests from Indian nationals in Syria, the ministry said.
A number of Indian citizens remain in Syria, and the government has urged them to maintain contact with the embassy in Damascus.
Assistance can be sought through the helpline number +963 993385973, (also on WhatsApp), or via email at hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in.
Earlier on Sunday, the rebel forces, spearheaded by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, seized control of Damascus following a swift 12-day offensive.
Bashar al-Assad, a key Kremlin ally, fled to Russia before the rebels stormed his palace and has reportedly received asylum there.
The rebels have named Mohammad al-Bashir as the transitional prime minister till 1 March.
In his inaugural interview with Al Jazeera, he urged for "stability and calm" during this transitional phase.
Reports indicate that the United States has engaged with the rebels, encouraging them to establish an inclusive transitional government rather than unilaterally assuming control.
A US official revealed that the Biden administration has also consulted with Donald Trump's team regarding the situation.
Earlier, Trump described Syria as a "mess" and opposed US involvement.
