India has evacuated 75 of its citizens from Syria, following the recent turmoil in the country after rebel forces ousted President Bashar al-Assad. The evacuation, which took place over several days, was a coordinated effort between the Indian government and local authorities in Syria to ensure the safety of its nationals caught amidst escalating conflict.

The airlifted citizens, who were living in various parts of Syria, were transported to a safe location before being flown back to India. This evacuation came just days after rebel factions launched a major offensive, seizing key territories and weakening the grip of Assad’s forces in those regions. The situation on the ground has rapidly deteriorated, leading many foreign nationals, including Indians, to seek safer grounds outside the war zone.

The Indian government, in response to the escalating violence and growing safety concerns, had set up emergency protocols to facilitate the return of its citizens. Indian diplomats, along with the foreign ministry, worked round the clock to assess the situation and make evacuation arrangements. Given the volatile security conditions, the task was particularly challenging, as rebel forces were pushing closer to major cities.

The 75 individuals evacuated represent a small portion of the Indian nationals living in Syria, many of whom have been caught in the conflict since the civil war began over a decade ago.

The MEA has said that the Indian nationals remaining in Syria have been advised to be in touch with the Indian Embassy in the capital city of Damascus at their emergency helpline number +963 993385973 (also on WhatsApp) and email ID (hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in) for any important updates.