Pakistani citizens safe in Syria, advised to take caution: FO

Foreign Office confirmed that all Pakistani nationals currently in Syria are safe, amid the country’s ongoing volatile situation. However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised citizens to exercise caution and remain alert.

In a statement released in Islamabad, Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch assured that Pakistan is actively monitoring developments in Syria. “We are closely monitoring the evolving situation in Syria,” she said, adding that Pakistan's stance on Syria's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity remains unchanged.

Regarding the current state of travel in Syria, Baloch confirmed that Damascus Airport is closed, further complicating the movement of people. However, the Pakistan Embassy in Syria remains in contact with stranded Pakistani nationals, including Zaireen (pilgrims), to provide support and guidance.

"The Embassy of Pakistan in Syria is open for necessary support and advice," the spokesperson stated. She also reassured citizens that the Embassy will facilitate their safe return once the airport reopens.

Earlier, In light of the escalating conflict in Syria, the Pakistani government has activated its Crisis Management Unit (CMU) to assist its citizens amidst the rapidly deteriorating situation,

The Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has urged Pakistanis currently residing in Syria, as well as their families, to contact the CMU for support. The contact details are as follows: Telephone: 051-9207887, Email: cmu1@mofa.gov.pk.

Simultaneously, the Pakistani Embassy in Damascus remains actively engaged in providing assistance to nationals. The embassy can be reached through mobile/WhatsApp at: +963 987 127 822 or +963 990 138 972.

Additionally, the embassy’s official email address is parepdamascus@mofa.gov.pk.

Reports suggest that President Assad fled Damascus this morning, with no sign of Syrian military activity in the capital. Rebel forces, meanwhile, have entered the city and are claiming control of key areas.

The situation is fluid, with thousands of Syrians celebrating in the streets, chanting "Freedom" as they mark what they believe is the end of Assad’s rule.

The head of the Syrian opposition group, Hadi al-Bahra, confirmed that the capital is now "without Bashar al-Assad."