Srinagar, December 11(KNS): The Government of India has successfully evacuated 75 Indian nationals from Syria, responding to recent developments in the region.

Among the evacuees were 44 pilgrims from Jammu & Kashmir who had been stranded in Saida Zainab. The 44 pilgrims were in Saida Zainab to visit the revered shrine of Sayyida Zainab, a significant site for Shia Muslims and an important destination for Indian pilgrims. However, the escalating security concerns in the region left them stranded

In an X post, the Indian Embassy in Lebanon announced, “All 75 Indian nationals evacuated from Syria, including 44 zaireen from Jammu & Kashmir who were stranded at Saida Zainab, have now reached Beirut.” Ambassador Noor Rahman Sheikh welcomed the evacuees upon their arrival in Beirut.

The evacuees are confirmed to be safe in Lebanon and will soon return to India via commercial flights.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelMeanwhile, Indian nationals who remain in Syria have been advised to stay in close contact with the Indian Embassy in Damascus for any required assistance or updates. The embassy can be reached through its helpline (+963 993385973) or email (hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in).

The evacuation operation was a collaborative initiative between the Indian embassies in Damascus and Beirut. It was launched following a comprehensive assessment of the security situation in the region, and after requests from Indian nationals in Syria.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement which said, “The Government of India accords the highest priority to the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad.” This successful operation underscores the Indian government’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of its citizens in challenging circumstances. (KNS)