Mon Dec 09 07:42:42 UTC 2024: ## India Monitors Situation as Islamist Rebels Seize Control of Syria
**New Delhi, India** – India is closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation in Syria following the dramatic overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad by Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement on Monday urging all stakeholders to prioritize the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the war-torn nation.
The MEA emphasized its advocacy for a peaceful and inclusive Syrian-led political process that respects the interests of all Syrian citizens. The Indian embassy in Damascus remains in contact with the Indian community in the country. This statement follows a high-priority travel advisory issued last week urging Indian citizens to avoid all travel to Syria and advising those already present to depart immediately.
HTS, a group with roots in Al-Qaeda, claimed victory on Sunday after a swift advance on the capital, Damascus. Leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani (Ahmed al-Sharaa) declared a “historic victory” in a video address from the Umayyad Mosque. Reports suggest President al-Assad fled the country and is now in Moscow, though this is yet to be officially confirmed.
The fall of al-Assad’s regime, 13 years after the start of the Syrian civil war, has elicited a range of international responses. The United States called for a transition away from the Assad regime, while France and Germany welcomed the end of his rule and pledged support for a peaceful resolution. Iran expressed its hope for continued friendly relations with Syria, while other nations like the UAE and Turkey offered varying degrees of support for a peaceful and unified Syria. The United Nations envoy called the situation a watershed moment, urging those in power to prevent the recurrence of past atrocities. India’s call for unity and sovereignty reflects a cautious approach amidst this significant geopolitical shift.
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