Italy prepares a citizen’s evacuation plan for Syria as Islamist rebels, aligned with pro-Turkish and anti-Assad factions, advance towards Damascus.
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced the initiative following a virtual meeting with Italian ambassadors from the Middle East, Moscow, and the Vatican on Saturday.
“The embassy is prepared to organise evacuations. We already have requests, and the government is committed to ensuring the safe exit of citizens,” Tajani stated after the meeting at the Farnesina Crisis Unit. “We will make sure that everyone wishing to leave Syria can do so,” he added, without detailing the evacuation plans.
Evacuation Plan focuses on Italian Citizens
Tajani emphasised the government’s priority is the safety of the approximately 300 Italian citizens currently in Syria. “At the moment, there are no immediate concerns for their safety,” he said. “Some have already managed to leave the country, and all are in contact with our embassy in Damascus. The situation remains under control.”
The foreign minister briefed Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on the evolving situation in Syria, a country plagued by conflict for nearly 14 years, causing widespread displacement. “I provided the Prime Minister with a detailed assessment of developments in Syria and the broader region after discussions with our ambassadors in Syria, Turkey, and Moscow,” Tajani explained.
Diplomatic Efforts and Regional Stability
The meeting included ambassadors from key cities such as Damascus, Doha, Tel Aviv, Amman, Beirut, Tehran, and Ankara, as well as Moscow and the Holy See. Discussions focused on political and diplomatic efforts to halt hostilities in Syria and ensure the safety of both Italian nationals and religious minorities.
“We continue to advocate for a political, non-military solution that guarantees peace and stability in Syria,” Tajani said. He expressed support for ongoing negotiations in Doha and urged all parties to pursue a political resolution.
International Cooperation
Tajani highlighted Italy’s engagement with G7 partners and international organisations to address the crisis. “We have called on all parties to prioritise civilian safety and ensure the protection of minorities, including Christians,” he noted.
The foreign minister also confirmed direct communication with the Apostolic Nuncio in Damascus, Turkey’s foreign minister, and the Russian government through Italy’s embassy in Moscow and the United Nations.
