SRINAGAR: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has announced the safe evacuation of 75 Indian nationals from Syria on Tuesday, including 44 residents of Jammu and Kashmir. This development comes two days after rebel forces overthrew the 14-year-long brutal regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
The stranded Indian nationals, including pilgrims (zaireen) from Jammu and Kashmir at Saida Zainab, were successfully transported to Lebanon. MEA stated that arrangements are underway for their return to India via commercial flights.
“The Government of India accords the highest priority to the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad,” the ministry emphasised. It advised remaining Indian nationals in Syria to maintain contact with the Indian Embassy in Damascus for updates.
The dramatic overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, marked by rebel forces capturing the capital Damascus and other key cities, has plunged Syria into a period of uncertainty. Assad, who fled to Russia and is reportedly seeking asylum there, leaves behind a legacy marred by civil war and crackdowns on political dissent.
The evacuation of the 44 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir has brought relief to their families back home. Saida Zainab, a revered site for many Shia Muslims, is a popular pilgrimage destination. However, the escalating crisis in Syria had left these pilgrims stranded until the Indian government intervened.
