In a coordinated operation, India evacuated 75 of its citizens from Syria, including 44 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir, following the collapse of President Bashar Al Assad’s government. Islamist rebels seized power in Damascus on Sunday, prompting concerns over the security of foreign nationals.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the evacuees had safely crossed into Lebanon and would return to India on available commercial flights. A statement from the MEA highlighted the evacuation as a response to “recent developments in that country” and emphasized India’s commitment to the safety of its citizens abroad.
“The Government of India accords the highest priority to the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad. Indian nationals remaining in Syria are advised to stay in touch with the Indian Embassy in Damascus at their emergency helpline number +963 993385973 (also on WhatsApp) and email ID (hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in) for updates. The Government will continue to monitor the situation closely,” the statement read.
The operation was jointly managed by the Indian embassies in Damascus and Beirut. The MEA advised remaining Indian nationals in Syria to stay connected with the Indian Embassy in Damascus for updates, providing an emergency helpline and email for assistance.
The fall of Assad’s government, which marked the end of the Arab Socialist Ba’ath Party’s decades-long rule, came after weeks of escalating conflict. The armed Syrian opposition rapidly gained control over key cities, culminating in the takeover of Damascus and the president’s flight from the capital.