World News: In a dramatic turn of events, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India has issued a critical advisory late Friday evening, urging all Indian citizens to avoid any travel to Syria until further notice. This advisory comes in response to the escalating violence and instability in the region, which poses significant risks to travelers. The MEA emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, In view of the situation prevailing in Syria, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all travel to Syria, until further notification.Citizens in Syria Advised to Leave ImmediatelyThe advisory specifically calls upon Indians currently residing in Syria to depart at the earliest opportunity. The MEA has recommended that those who can should utilize the earliest available commercial flights for their exit. For those unable to leave immediately, the ministry has urged them to exercise extreme caution regarding their safety and limit their movements as much as possible. Those who can, are advised to leave by the earliest available commercial flights and others are requested to observe utmost precaution about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum, the MEA added.Stay Connected: Embassy Support AvailableIndians in Syria have been instructed to maintain contact with the Indian Embassy in Damascus for updates and assistance. The embassy has provided an emergency helpline number, +963 993385973, which is also accessible via WhatsApp, along with an email address for further communication: hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in. The MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted that there are approximately 90 Indian nationals currently in Syria, including 14 individuals working with various UN organizations.A Chaotic Battlefield: Rebel Forces AdvanceThis advisory comes on the heels of a lightning offensive by rebel forces against President Bashar al-Assads government, which has resulted in a humanitarian crisis displacing over 370,000 people since November 27, according to United Nations reports. The insurgents, notably led by the jihadi group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have declared intentions to advance towards Homs and Damascus, further intensifying fears of widespread violence.Jaiswal confirmed that the MEA is closely following the situation as it develops. He stated during a media briefing, We have taken note of the recent escalation in fighting in the north of Syria. Our mission remains in close contact with our nationals for their safety and security.As tensions continue to rise in this long-standing conflict, the Indian government is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of its citizens abroad.
