India evacuates 75 nationals from Syria amid post-Assad power shift

75 nationals, including 44 pilgrims, evacuated from Syria as rebels take control

India successfully evacuated 75 Indian nationals from Syria on Tuesday, two days after the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces, ending his 14-year rule. The evacuated individuals, including 44 zaireen (pilgrims) from Jammu and Kashmir stranded at Saida Zainab, were safely transported to Lebanon and will return to India on available commercial flights, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced.

Coordinated evacuation amid crisis

The evacuation was jointly coordinated by India’s embassies in Damascus and Beirut, following an urgent security assessment. The MEA emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety of Indian nationals abroad.

“The Government of India today evacuated 75 Indian nationals from Syria, following recent developments in that country. The evacuees included 44 zaireen from Jammu and Kashmir who were stranded at Saida Zainab,” the official statement read.

Indian nationals still in Syria have been advised to stay connected with the Indian Embassy in Damascus for emergency assistance through its helpline at +963 993385973 (also available on WhatsApp) or via email at hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in.

Collapse of the Syrian regime

The Syrian government fell on Sunday when rebel forces led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) seized control of Damascus after capturing several major cities, including Homs, Daraa, and Suwayda. The sudden collapse marked the end of the Assad family’s 50-year-long grip on power.

According to Russian state media, Assad and his family have fled to Moscow, where they have reportedly been granted asylum on humanitarian grounds. His nearly 14-year presidency was marked by intense civil war, widespread violence, and accusations of war crimes, including the use of chemical weapons against civilians.

India’s diplomatic stance

In response to Syria’s unfolding political crisis, the MEA reaffirmed India’s support for a “peaceful and inclusive Syrian-led political process” aimed at restoring stability in the war-torn country.

India’s timely evacuation highlights its proactive approach to safeguarding its citizens abroad amid escalating global conflicts. The government continues to monitor the situation closely while offering diplomatic support for a peaceful resolution in Syria.

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