Sat Dec 07 01:02:07 UTC 2024: ## India Issues Urgent Travel Advisory for Syria Amidst Renewed Civil Unrest
**New Delhi, December 7, 2024** – The Indian government has issued a strong travel advisory urging all Indian citizens to avoid traveling to Syria immediately, citing the escalating security risks due to renewed civil unrest. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the advisory on Friday, December 6th, following a significant escalation of fighting in northern Syria.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that approximately 90 Indian nationals are currently in Syria, including 14 working for various UN organizations. The MEA is actively monitoring the situation and maintaining close contact with these individuals to ensure their safety and security. Indians already in Syria are advised to contact the Indian Embassy in Damascus via their emergency helpline number and email address for updates and assistance. Those able to leave are urged to do so via commercial flights, while others are advised to minimize movement and prioritize safety.
The renewed violence, reported by CNN as a result of a violent offensive by Syrian rebels, has led to hundreds fleeing the city of Homs. The rebels’ advance threatens to split the territory controlled by President Bashar al-Assad in two. This marks a significant escalation after years of relative calm along the front lines. The Indian government’s advisory reflects its concern for the well-being of its citizens in the face of this volatile situation.
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