ISLAMABAD: 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, media reported. The Syrian army reportedly informed its officers early today that President Bashar al-Assad’s regime has collapsed following a swift rebel offensive that has reached Damascus. 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.” The Pakistan Foreign Office had already advised against non-essential travel to Syria on December 6, citing security concerns.
Those currently in Syria are urged to exercise extreme caution and maintain regular contact with the embassy. –Agencies
