India Evacuates 75 Citizens Amid Growing Chaos in Syria as Rebel Forces Take Control

In a swift response to the rapidly deteriorating situation in Syria, the Indian government has successfully evacuated 75 of its citizens, including a group of pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir, as rebel forces seized control of Damascus. This evacuation marks a significant step in India’s ongoing efforts to safeguard its nationals in conflict zones.

Press release: Evacuation of Indian Nationals from Syria ⬇️https://t.co/7bESmhpKK2

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) December 10, 2024

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the evacuees, including 44 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir who were stranded in the shrine city of Saida Zainab, have safely crossed into Lebanon. From there, they will return to India on available commercial flights.

The evacuation was carried out following a reassessment of the security situation in Syria. “The evacuation process was prompted by recent developments in Syria, where a significant power shift occurred. All evacuated nationals are en route to India,” the MEA said in a statement.

The Indian government, in coordination with the Indian embassies in Damascus and Beirut, swiftly executed the plan after consulting with citizens stranded in Syria and evaluating the escalating security risks. This marks the first large-scale evacuation by India following the breakdown of the Syrian government’s control.

The statement emphasized India’s commitment to the safety and security of its citizens abroad, urging any remaining Indians in Syria to stay in touch with the Indian Embassy in Damascus for updates and assistance. The embassy has provided an emergency helpline (+963 993385973) and an email contact for urgent communication.

Syria’s Political and Security Crisis Escalates

The political landscape in Syria has shifted dramatically in recent weeks. What started as a series of clashes between the Syrian government and opposition forces culminated in the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime within a span of just 14 days. The fall of Assad’s government occurred on December 8, 2024, marking the end of a rule that had lasted over five decades, including 24 years under Assad's leadership.

The rapid advance of opposition forces, primarily Islamist rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), saw the rebels gaining control of key cities across the country. On Sunday, HTS forces marched into Damascus, forcing Assad to flee and triggering a collapse of the long-standing Ba’athist government.

In a statement broadcast on Syrian state television, opposition leaders declared that they had “liberated” the capital and overthrown the “tyrant al-Assad.” They also announced the release of all political prisoners detained by the regime.

Despite the celebrations, there have been concerns about the future stability of Syria. HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani, while trying to assuage fears, has called for the protection of civilians and property across the country. On November 29, after the fall of Aleppo, al-Jawlani reassured the public that the priority was to “ensure the safety and security of all people, regardless of their sectarian background.”

India’s Role in Protecting Nationals Amid Regional Turmoil

As the situation in Syria remains volatile, India continues to monitor developments closely. The MEA reiterated its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens in the region, providing support through consular services and evacuation efforts.

While India’s immediate response has been to evacuate its nationals, there are broader concerns about the future trajectory of Syria. With Assad’s fall, the country faces an uncertain future, particularly with the possibility of extremist factions rising to power. The international community is watching closely as the rebel factions consolidate their hold on the country.

The evacuation of Indian nationals from Syria comes as a reminder of the complexities of geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East. India has a longstanding interest in the region, balancing relations with various players, including those in Syria, Lebanon, and beyond. As the situation evolves, India will likely continue to play a role in ensuring the protection of its citizens in the region and adapting to the changing political landscape.