- By Kamal Kumar
- Sat, 07 Dec 2024 07:40 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Indian government issued an important advisory for conflict-marred Syria, strongly advising its citizens to avoid travelling to the West Asian country until further notice. The warning comes as Damascus crumbles against the mounting attack of the rebel forces and reports indicate further escalation in the security situation in the country.
"In view of the situation prevailing in Syria, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all travel to Syria, until further notification," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a press release.
It also addressed the Indian nationals in Syria and issued several key measures for such citizens. Issuing an emergency helpline number, the advisory asked Indians to leave Syria immediately.
"Indians currently in Syria are requested to remain in touch with the Indian Embassy in Damascus at their emergency helpline number (also on WhatsApp) and email ID hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in for updates. Those who can, are advised to leave by the earliest available commercial flights and others are requested to observe utmost precaution about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," the MEA release added.
Notably, India took note of the violent escalation in Syria, keeping in mind the safety of Indian nationals there, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday.
There are about 90 Indian nationals in Syria, including 14 who work for the United Nations in the country.
"We have taken note of the recent escalation in fighting in the north of Syria. We are closely following the situation. There are about 90 Indian nationals in Syria, including 14 who are working in various UN organizations. Our Mission remains in close contact with our nationals for their safety and security," MEA secretary Jaiswal said in a press briefing on Friday.
Meanwhile, the Syrian rebel forces are rapidly advancing towards Damascus and reports suggest that President Bashar al-Assad might have fled the crumbling nation. The three-fold jolt on Friday shook the Iran-Russia-backed ruler on Friday. While Hayat Tahrir al-Sham-led rebel forces took the city of Homs, Kurdish fighters gained the control of eastern desert. Adding to Assad's misery, locals in the South took to the streets to protest against his rule, indicating a popular uprising along with militia wars.