Sun Dec 08 12:51:16 UTC 2024: ## India Issues Urgent Travel Advisory for Syria Amidst Heightened Violence
**New Delhi, December 7:** The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued an urgent travel advisory warning Indian citizens against all travel to Syria and advising those currently in the country to leave immediately. The advisory, issued late on December 6th, comes in response to escalating violence in Syria following a major offensive by Islamic rebel groups against the Bashar al-Assad regime.
Rebel groups, reportedly backed by Turkey, launched a significant attack last week, threatening to overthrow President Assad and seizing several cities including Aleppo and Hama. The fighting has intensified, with the rebels now operating within 5-10 kilometers of government centers in Damascus. Power has been cut in some areas and widespread violence is reported.
The MEA’s advisory urges Indian citizens in Syria to leave the country immediately using available commercial flights and to remain in contact with the Indian Embassy in Damascus. The embassy has provided a helpline number (+963 993385973) and email address (hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in) for assistance. Those unable to depart immediately are advised to contact the embassy for guidance.
The advisory highlights the deteriorating security situation, fueled by the ongoing conflict between the Assad government and the escalating rebel offensive. The number of Indian nationals in Syria is relatively small, but the MEA is taking proactive measures given the unpredictable nature of the violence and the history of attacks by Islamic extremist groups in the region, including ISIS. The situation is considered highly volatile, with the possibility of further escalation.
First Piper 