India on Friday issued a strict travel advisory urging its citizens to avoid all travel to Syria due to the intensifying violence in the region. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released the advisory following a major offensive by rebel forces in the conflict-ridden country.
"In view of the situation prevailing in Syria, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all travel to Syria, until further notification," the MEA stated.
Calls for Early Departure and Precautionary Measures
The advisory further requested Indian nationals already in Syria to leave the country at the earliest opportunity using available commercial flights. For those unable to leave immediately, the ministry recommended exercising "utmost precaution" and limiting their movements.
Indian Embassy Ready to Assist Nationals
The MEA urged Indian citizens in Syria to maintain close contact with the Indian Embassy in Damascus. The embassy has set up an emergency helpline at +963 993385973, which is also accessible via WhatsApp. Additionally, citizens can reach out via email at hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in for assistance and updates.
90 Indians in Syria, Including UN Personnel
According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, there are currently around 90 Indian nationals in Syria, including 14 individuals employed by various United Nations organisations.
"We have taken note of the recent escalation in fighting in the north of Syria. We are closely monitoring the situation, and our mission remains in contact with Indian nationals to ensure their safety and security," Jaiswal said during a press briefing.
The advisory coincides with a major offensive launched by insurgent groups, led by the jihadi faction Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The rebels have captured key cities, including Aleppo, Syria's largest city, marking a significant escalation in the country's nearly 14-year-long civil war.
On Thursday, the rebel forces extended their advances by taking control of Hama, Syria's fourth-largest city. The capture of Hama is considered a strategic milestone as insurgents now focus on Homs, a key crossroads city. If Homs falls, it would sever vital territories controlled by President Bashar al-Assad's government, further weakening his regime.
Residents Flee as Tensions Mount
The rebel advance has sparked widespread panic, with videos circulating online showing hundreds of residents fleeing Homs overnight. The rebels are reportedly pushing southward along the route to Damascus, escalating fears of further violence near the capital.
The MEA's advisory serves as a critical warning to Indian citizens amid the escalating turmoil in Syria, urging them to prioritise their safety and adhere to official recommendations.
With inputs from agencies
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