The Government of India has issued a midnight advisory to its nationals, urging them to avoid all travel to Syria due to the escalating conflict. Indians in Syria are advised to contact the Embassy in Damascus and to leave as soon as possible if able. The military situation, where rebel forces have gained significant territories, poses serious risks, highlighting the deteriorating stability in the region.
In response to the escalating conflict in Syria, the Government of India has issued a midnight advisory urging all Indian nationals to refrain from traveling to Syria until further notice. This advisory emphasizes that Indians currently in Syria should remain in contact with the Indian Embassy in Damascus and advises those who can do so to exit the country via the earliest commercial flights. For those unable to leave, the advisory strongly recommends exercising heightened caution for their safety and minimizing movement.
The advisory included an emergency helpline number for the Indian Embassy (+963 993385973), which is also available via WhatsApp, alongside an email address for emergencies ([email protected]). It underscores the gravity of the situation in Syria, where the ongoing political strife has intensified, specifically targeting the regime of President Bashar al-Assad.
As rebel forces backed by Turkey have made significant advances against the Assad regime, several cities, including Aleppo and Hama, have fallen from government control, marking a turning point in the civil war that has gripped Syria since 2011. The Islamist-led rebels, under the command of Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, leader of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) coalition, have made substantial territorial gains, posing an unprecedented threat to the regime. The objective of this offensive, according to al-Jolani, is to decisively overthrow Assad’s government.
As international dynamics shift, with Turkey supporting the rebels and ongoing discussions among regional foreign ministers, the situation remains precarious. The future governance of Syria hangs in the balance as both domestic and foreign actors assess their next moves amid the rapidly evolving conflict.
India’s advisory highlights the necessity for caution and proactive measures concerning the safety of its nationals in light of the unrest. Constant updates regarding the situation in Syria are crucial for informed decision-making among the Indian community, reinforcing the imperative for vigilance amidst ongoing conflict.
The backdrop of this advisory is rooted in the severe political turmoil in Syria, primarily arising from the civil war that has ensued since 2011. The regime of President Bashar al-Assad, supported by Russia and Iran, faces continuous threats from various rebel factions. The recent escalation of violence highlights a critical period, with rebel forces achieving unprecedented gains against Assad’s government, leading to heightened concerns for the safety of foreign nationals in the region, particularly from India. Turkey’s involvement, alongside the ambitions of the HTS alliance seeking recognition and support from global powers such as Russia and China, adds complexity to the situation. This strategic landscape necessitates precautions for Indian citizens amidst this deteriorating political and security environment in Syria.
The Indian government’s advisory represents a significant measure aimed at safeguarding its nationals amid the escalating conflict in Syria. With rebel forces challenging Assad’s long-standing regime, the potential fallout poses risks not only locally but also internationally. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, India remains vigilant in addressing the safety and well-being of its citizens while monitoring developments in Syria closely. Assistance and information dissemination through diplomatic channels will be crucial for those affected during this tumultuous period.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
