New Delhi, December 11, 2024 – The Indian government successfully evacuated 75 nationals from Syria today, including 44 pilgrims (zaireen) from Jammu & Kashmir stranded at the Sayyidah Zainab pilgrimage site.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that all evacuees have crossed safely into Lebanon and will soon return to India via commercial flights. This evacuation was coordinated by Indian embassies in Damascus and Beirut after an assessment of the deteriorating security situation and requests from stranded nationals.
“The safety and security of Indian nationals abroad remain our top priority,” the MEA stated in its press release. The ministry urged remaining Indian citizens in Syria to maintain contact with the Embassy of India in Damascus for updates and emergency assistance. The helpline (+963 993385973, also available on WhatsApp) and email address (hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in) are open for immediate support.
The Indian government has previously issued a travel advisory discouraging any travel to Syria due to the ongoing instability. Despite the change in regime, the situation in the region remains precarious.
Officials assured that the government is closely monitoring developments and will take swift action to ensure the safety of all Indian nationals.
