India asks its citizens to leave Syria

India has asked all its citizens to leave Syria in view of escalating violence in the West Asian country.

"We are in touch with our Mission in Damascus who are also in contact with the approximately 25-30 Indian citizens in Syria. All Indian citizens are safe. Previously, we had advised all Indian citizens in Syria to return to India. They have once again been advised to leave Syria," said Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin in response to query on Indians in Syria.

"The earlier advisory for Indian nationals not to travel to Syria also remains in effect," he added.