New Delhi [India], December 7 (HBTV): The Indian government has issued a travel advisory strongly urging Indian nationals to avoid all travel to Syria until further notice due to the prevailing security situation.

"In view of the situation prevailing in Syria, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all travel to Syria, until further notification," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated in a press release.

Indian nationals currently in Syria are advised to remain in close contact with the Indian Embassy in Damascus through its emergency helpline number and email ID for updates. Those who can leave are encouraged to take the earliest available commercial flights, while others are urged to exercise utmost caution and minimize their movements.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reported that approximately 90 Indian nationals, including 14 working in various UN organizations, are currently in Syria. "We have taken note of the recent escalation in fighting in the north of Syria. We are closely following the situation. Our Mission remains in close contact with our nationals for their safety and security," Jaiswal said during a press briefing.

The advisory follows reports of intensified violence in Syria. According to CNN, anti-regime rebels have resumed offensives, reviving the long-standing civil conflict. Front lines, which had remained relatively stable since 2020, have shifted, with rebel groups expanding beyond Idlib province.

Hundreds reportedly fled the central city of Homs overnight as rebels pushed south toward Damascus after capturing Hama to the north on Thursday. If Homs falls, it would split territories controlled by President Bashar al-Assad into two.

The Syrian conflict began in 2011, triggered by President Assad's crackdown on pro-democracy protests during the Arab Spring. According to the United Nations, over 300,000 civilians have been killed and millions displaced throughout the decade-long war.  

(ANI)