India issues travel advisory amid escalating violence in Syria: New updates

Monday, December 9, 2024

The Government of India has issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to refrain from traveling to Syria amid rising violence and unrest in the war-torn Middle Eastern nation.

The advisory, released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday, December 8, comes in light of renewed conflict that has destabilized large parts of the country.

“In view of the situation prevailing in Syria, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all travel to Syria until further notification,” stated the MEA in its official release.

Support for Stranded Indian Nationals

The MEA has requested Indian nationals currently in Syria to leave at the earliest possible opportunity using available commercial flights.

An emergency helpline has been established to assist those in need:

• Emergency Contact Number: +963 993385973
• Email ID: For further communication, the Indian Embassy in Damascus remains available.

The ministry has also confirmed that approximately 90 Indian nationals reside in Syria, including 14 working with United Nations organizations.

Efforts are being made to ensure their safety, with the Indian Embassy in Damascus maintaining regular communication.

“We are closely monitoring the situation. Our mission remains in contact with Indian nationals in Syria to ensure their safety and security,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

Renewed Conflict in Syria

The advisory follows a resurgence of violence as Syrian rebel forces, led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, launched an offensive aimed at overthrowing President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

Rebel forces have recently seized key territories, including Hama, and are advancing into Homs, threatening to divide government-controlled regions.

HTS, an alliance with roots in Al-Qaeda, has positioned its latest campaign as part of the revolution to “end Assad’s rule.”

In an interview with a news portal, HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani reiterated the group’s objective: “It is our right to use all available means to achieve the goal of overthrowing this regime.”

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

The renewed violence has exacerbated Syria’s ongoing humanitarian crisis. Tens of thousands of civilians, particularly from Assad’s Alawite minority, are fleeing conflict zones like Homs.

Since the onset of the Syrian Civil War in 2011, over 300,000 civilians have died, and millions have been displaced, according to United Nations reports.

The conflict reignited last week when the rebels launched their offensive, coinciding with a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in neighboring Lebanon.

India’s Response

India’s diplomatic mission is closely monitoring developments in Syria and has assured citizens of continued support during this challenging time.

As the conflict unfolds, Indian nationals are advised to remain vigilant and comply with government advisories to ensure their safety.