The Government of India has issued an urgent advisory urging all Indian nationals to avoid travel to Syria and recommending those currently in the country to leave at the earliest due to the worsening security situation. The advisory comes in light of escalating violence as rebel forces, led by the group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), advance towards Syria's capital, Damascus.

Grave Situation in Syria

Rebel forces have launched a swift offensive, capturing strategic cities, including Hama and Daraa, and advancing to towns near Homs. The capture of Homs, just five miles from rebel-held areas, could sever Damascus from the coastal regions, which are strongholds of President Bashar al-Assad's regime and home to Russian military bases. The offensive has displaced an estimated 370,000 people, with thousands fleeing towards the government-controlled coastal regions of Latakia and Tartus.

Indian Nationals Advised to Evacuate

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has advised Indian nationals in Syria to:

    Leave immediately: Those able to travel should use the earliest available commercial flights to exit Syria.

    Minimize movement: For those unable to leave, the MEA urged utmost caution and minimal movement for safety.

The Indian Embassy in Damascus has been designated as the point of contact for assistance. The emergency helpline number +963 993385973 (also available on WhatsApp) and email ID hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in are operational for updates and support.

Rebel Advancements and International Implications

The rebels, now at the gates of Homs, have captured strategic towns along highways leading to Damascus. Daraa, a city of symbolic and strategic importance near the Jordanian border, was seized after a deal with government forces for an orderly withdrawal. The fall of Homs could severely weaken the Assad regime, cutting it off from vital coastal regions where its allies, Russia and Iran, maintain key military installations.

The United Nations has warned that the escalating violence is worsening the humanitarian crisis, leaving civilians in frontline areas without safe refuge.

Turkey’s Stance and Diplomatic Efforts

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed support for the insurgency and called for reshaping Syria’s future. He hinted at a coordinated effort with Russia and Iran, whose foreign ministers are set to meet urgently in Doha to discuss the situation.

India’s Precautionary Measures

In response to the rapidly deteriorating security situation, the Indian government’s midnight advisory underscores the gravity of the conflict. With Syria embroiled in political turmoil and several cities falling to rebel control, the safety of Indian nationals remains a top priority for the MEA. Indian citizens are urged to stay in touch with the embassy for real-time updates and assistance. This proactive measure aims to ensure their safety as the conflict in Syria intensifies, with rebel forces closing in on key government strongholds.