India evacuated 75 of its nationals from war-torn Syria after rebel forces, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), overthrew President Bashar al-Assad’s authoritarian regime. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Wednesday that all evacuees, including 44 ‘zaireen’ from Jammu and Kashmir, have safely reached Lebanon and will soon return to India via commercial flights.
The evacuation operation was executed against the backdrop of escalating violence and instability in Syria, where Assad’s nearly 14-year rule came to an abrupt end following the rebels’ capture of Damascus. The overthrow also marked the conclusion of the Assad family’s five-decade dominance over the nation. Reportedly, Bashar al-Assad has fled to Russia, which has granted him and his family asylum, citing “humanitarian considerations.”
India’s embassies in Damascus and Beirut worked in tandem to ensure the safe evacuation of its citizens, prioritizing their safety amid the deteriorating situation. Noor Rahman Sheikh, India’s Ambassador to Lebanon, personally received the evacuees upon their arrival in Beirut.
“The Government of India accords the highest priority to the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad. All Indian nationals have safely crossed over to Lebanon and will return to India on available commercial flights,” the MEA said in an official statement.
The evacuees included pilgrims stranded in Saida Zainab, a significant Shia pilgrimage site near Damascus.
“The Government of India accords the highest priority to the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad. Indian nationals remaining in Syria are advised to stay in touch with the Indian Embassy in Damascus at their emergency helpline number +963 993385973 (also on WhatsApp) and email ID (hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in) for updates. The Government will continue to monitor the situation closely,” the statement read.
In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in Lebanon said, “Ambassador Noor Rahman received all 75 Indian nationals evacuated from Syria upon their arrival in Beirut. They will return by available commercial flights to India.”
The situation in Syria remains fluid after HTS forces took control of Damascus on Sunday, forcing Assad to flee. India has called for a peaceful and inclusive political transition in Syria, emphasizing its commitment to the Syrian people. “India will continue to monitor the situation closely and advocate for a resolution led by the Syrian people,” the MEA said.
(Inputs from agencies)