India evacuates 75 nationals from Syria amidst political turmoil
Amidst the unfolding political crisis in Syria following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, the Government of India successfully evacuated 75 Indian nationals from the conflict-torn country on Tuesday (December 10, 2024).
The evacuation was coordinated by the Indian embassies in Damascus and Beirut after assessing the rapidly deteriorating security situation in Syria. The evacuees included 44 zaireen (pilgrims) from Jammu and Kashmir who were stranded in the Saida Zainab area, a site of religious significance.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), all evacuees safely crossed the border into Lebanon. They are expected to return to India via commercial flights. “The Government of India today evacuated 75 Indian nationals from Syria, following recent developments in that country,” read an official statement from the MEA on Wednesday (December 11, 2024).
Security Prioritisation Amidst Crisis
The evacuation comes two days after rebel forces toppled President Assad’s government, marking a significant shift in Syria’s political landscape. Assad’s ouster followed years of civil war that began in 2011 as part of the Arab Spring uprisings. The rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) captured the Syrian capital Damascus on Sunday (December 8, 2024), forcing Assad to flee and seek asylum in Russia.
The Indian government has acted swiftly to address the concerns of its nationals, prioritising their safety amidst the growing unrest. “The government accords the highest priority to the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad,” the MEA emphasised.
The MEA has urged Indian nationals still in Syria to remain in close contact with the Indian Embassy in Damascus. They can reach out via the emergency helpline number (+963 993385973) or email (hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in) for updates and assistance. “The government will continue to monitor the situation closely and extend necessary support,” the statement added.
The Syrian civil war, which began in 2011, has been marked by widespread violence, humanitarian crises, and the involvement of multiple state and non-state actors. The conflict escalated after initial pro-democracy protests against Assad’s authoritarian regime were met with a brutal crackdown. Over the years, various rebel groups, including the Free Syrian Army and HTS, have emerged, intensifying the war.
By 2012, the situation had devolved into a full-blown civil war, with international powers often supporting opposing sides. Assad’s 24-year rule, characterized by relentless conflict, officially ended this week with the fall of Damascus to rebel forces. His family’s five-decade-long grip on Syrian politics now seems irreversibly broken.
Global Implications of Assad’s Ouster
The collapse of Assad’s government has created a vacuum in Syria’s political landscape, with international observers calling for a peaceful and inclusive resolution. On Monday, the MEA advocated for a political process led by the Syrian people to restore stability.
Meanwhile, countries around the world, including European nations, are recalibrating their policies regarding Syria. Some have temporarily halted Syrian asylum applications, citing the uncertainty following Assad’s fall.
India’s swift evacuation underscores its proactive approach to safeguarding its diaspora in crisis zones. The operation was a collaborative effort between Indian officials stationed in Damascus and Beirut, reflecting a well-coordinated response to the escalating crisis.
The evacuees expressed relief and gratitude for the government’s timely intervention. Among them were pilgrims who had traveled to Syria for religious purposes and found themselves stranded amidst the turmoil.
The evacuation operation demonstrates India’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of its citizens, even in the most challenging circumstances. As the situation in Syria continues to evolve, the Indian government remains vigilant, ready to assist its nationals and support broader efforts for peace and stability in the region.
The safe return of these 75 individuals is a testament to India’s robust crisis management and its dedication to ensuring the safety of its people worldwide.
