India Calls for Inclusive Political Process in Syria Post-Assad’s Ouster

• India has called for a peaceful and inclusive political process in Syria following President Bashar al-Assad’s ouster.

• The move came after Assad fled to Russia and militant groups claimed control of Damascus.

• The Ministry of External Affairs has held Foreign Office Consultations with Syrian officials less than a fortnight ago.

• Experts warn India of the spillover effects of the regime-change across West Asia.

• The Ministry is monitoring the situation in Syria and advocating for a peaceful Syrian-led political process.

• Concerns have been raised that the new regime may target minorities, including Alawites, Druze, Kurds, and Christians.

• The ouster of Assad came as armed fighters from the Hayat Tahriral-Sham (HTS) captured Aleppo, Homs, and Hama, eventually overrunning the capital Damascus city.

• India’s former Ambassador to Syria, Gautam Mukhopadhaya, warns that any instability from Syria will affect everything in the Gulf region that is important for India.

• India and Syria held their sixth round of Foreign Office Consultations in New Delhi on November 29.