79 Pakistanis Stranded in Syria, Reach Beirut Safely

Web Desk — At least 79 Pakistani pilgrims were safely evacuated to Beirut amid significant political upheaval in Syria, officials informed the federal cabinet on Tuesday. This comes as the West Asian nation forms a transitional government following the ousting of its long-time ruler.

According to state broadcaster PTV, seven out of approximately 20 Pakistani teachers and students stranded in Syria have also reached Beirut. Pakistani embassy officials in Syria and Lebanon are working diligently to ensure the safe return of all citizens.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, speaking on the matter, revealed that he had a phone conversation with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati. PM Shehbaz stated that Mikati readily agreed to assist in the evacuation of “some 500-600 Pakistanis” from Syria via Beirut. Mikati assured that visa-related issues would not impede the process. The Pakistani government is considering chartered flights through Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport to facilitate the repatriation.

PM Shehbaz also highlighted the urgent need to return 250 Pakistani pilgrims and an additional 300 individuals, including students and teachers. He praised the efforts of Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who is actively coordinating with Pakistan’s ambassador in Syria to expedite the repatriation process.

Political Developments in Syria

Meanwhile, significant changes are unfolding in Syria. Syrian rebels have appointed Mohammed al-Bashir as the head of a transitional government, tasked with governing until March 1. This decision follows the removal of former President Bashar al-Assad, whose regime’s brutal crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2011 ignited a civil war that claimed over 500,000 lives and displaced millions.

Assad has fled the country as opposition forces took control of Damascus, marking the end of his family’s five-decade rule. In a televised address, Bashir, a relatively unknown figure who previously administered a rebel-held area in northwest Syria, vowed to focus on rebuilding and transitioning the nation during his interim tenure.

Rebel Leader’s Accountability Pledge

Ahmed al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, the leader of Syria’s rebel coalition, pledged to hold former regime officials accountable for war crimes and torture. In a statement on Telegram, Sharaa announced a rewards program for information about military and security officers implicated in human rights abuses.

He also committed to ensuring justice for victims and pursuing officials who have fled abroad. Sharma has initiated talks with outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed al-Jalali to ensure a seamless transition of power and continued provision of essential services to the Syrian population.

These developments mark a turning point for Syria, with domestic and international stakeholders closely monitoring the situation.