Indians in Syria Safe as Embassy Stays Operational Amid Crisis; Rebel Leader Declares Assad’s Fall a ‘Victory for the Islamic Nation

Summary:
– Indians in Syria are safe, with the Indian Embassy in Damascus operational and in contact with citizens.
– The embassy has issued advisories for caution amid the rebel advances.
– Syrian rebels have announced Assad’s overthrow and prisoner releases.
– International reactions, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s call for a political solution.
– Israel warns southern Syria residents due to ongoing combat.

Indian nationals in Syria have been confirmed safe despite the ongoing unrest. The Indian Embassy in Damascus remains fully operational and is in constant communication with them, ready to provide assistance as needed, according to sources from the Ministry of External Affairs.

The Indian government had earlier issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to avoid traveling to Syria and advising those in the country to exercise extreme caution and limit their movements due to escalating tensions from Islamist-led rebel advances.

Latest Updates:

• Al-Julani’s Public Appearance: In his first public appearance since rebel forces advanced into the suburbs of Damascus, Ahmad al-Sharaa (also known as Abu Mohammed al-Julani), leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), visited the Umayyad Mosque. He proclaimed the fall of Bashar al-Assad as a “victory for the Islamic nation” and accused Assad of allowing Syria to become “a farm for Iran’s greed.”
• Rebels Announce Assad’s Overthrow: Syrian state television broadcasted a statement from rebel forces on Sunday, claiming Assad’s government had fallen and announcing the release of prisoners. Rebels urged citizens to safeguard institutions of the “free Syrian state.”
• British Reaction: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed Assad’s downfall, calling it a positive development after years of suffering under his rule. He emphasized the need for a political resolution, advocating for the protection of civilians and minorities to bring stability to the region.
• Rebel Celebrations: Videos on rebel Telegram channels showed crowds cheering at the Umayyad Mosque as Ahmad al-Sharaa delivered a speech, with chants of “Allahu Akbar” echoing throughout.
• Israeli Warning: The Israeli military issued a warning to residents in five towns in southern Syria, advising them to stay indoors due to ongoing combat in the area.