India urges citizens to leave Syria as conflict intensifies

The Indian government has issued an urgent travel advisory, urging all its citizens to leave Syria as rebel forces, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), advance dangerously close to the capital, Damascus. This warning underscores the rapidly escalating violence in the region, particularly after insurgents seized key areas in and around Homs, Syria’s third-largest city, and Daraa in the south.

Rebels’ advance raises alarm

Syrian militants, bolstered by HTS forces, have made significant territorial gains in recent days. Reports suggest they have swept along major highways connecting Homs to Damascus, posing an imminent threat to the seat of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The capture of Daraa, a southern city near the Jordanian border, was reportedly negotiated through an agreement granting the Syrian army safe passage for a controlled withdrawal.

The fall of Homs, considered a vital junction for controlling central Syria, is seen as a critical development. Experts warn that losing Homs would grant insurgents a strategic pathway to Damascus, potentially destabilising the region further. According to conflict analysts, this advance could escalate into the most significant challenge to Syrian government forces since the height of the civil war.

Indian Ministry responds swiftly

Reacting to the deteriorating situation, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has urged Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Syria. Those currently in the country have been advised to make immediate arrangements for departure and remain in close contact with the Indian Embassy in Damascus for updates.

An MEA spokesperson stated that citizens could reach the embassy through its emergency helpline at +963 993385973, which is also available via WhatsApp, or by email at [email protected]. The spokesperson emphasised that this advisory should be followed promptly due to the volatile security environment.

Broader regional implications

The escalation in Syria poses significant geopolitical challenges. HTS, a group with roots in al-Qaeda, has been consolidating power in Syria’s northwest over the past year. While Russian forces have intensified airstrikes in rebel-held territories, their efforts have failed to decisively halt the insurgent advance. Observers have noted that the conflict could potentially spill over into neighbouring regions, exacerbating an already fragile humanitarian crisis.

Conflict experts highlight the precarious situation for civilians, thousands of whom are fleeing their homes daily. Humanitarian organisations have reported growing concerns about displacement, food shortages, and access to medical aid as the fighting encroaches on densely populated urban areas.

Indian citizens prioritised for safety

The MEA has reassured the public of its commitment to assisting Indian nationals. Officials are coordinating evacuation plans and providing real-time updates to ensure citizens’ safety during this critical period. The government has also underscored the importance of following embassy instructions and utilising emergency communication channels.

In conclusion, the situation in Syria remains highly volatile, with rebels making unprecedented advances toward Damascus. Indian nationals have been advised to prioritise their safety and leave the country immediately. With the conflict showing no signs of abating, adhering to the MEA’s guidance is vital for personal security.