Syria Deploys Historic International Search and Rescue Mission to Venezuela

A Syrian national search and rescue team has departed for Venezuela to aid in the immediate aftermath of a devastating earthquake. The contingent will focus on locating and rescuing victims affected by the seismic event, which has resulted in thousands of fatalities.

This deployment represents a significant historical achievement for Syria, marking the first time an official Syrian contingent has crossed its borders to lead natural disaster response operations abroad. The mission was coordinated at the highest levels, with President Ahmad Al-Sharaa issuing direct orders for the mobilization of specialized resources.

The team, comprising 15 highly skilled specialists in collapsed structures, advanced first aid, and critical scenario management, departed from Damascus International Airport. To enhance operational effectiveness over such a long distance, Syria has established a strategic alliance with Qatar's Internal Security Force's international rescue team, Lekhwiya.

Under this partnership, Qatar's Lekhwiya will provide robust logistical support, including heavy machinery and technical equipment. Syrian rescuers will operate on the front lines within high-risk zones, directly responsible for the precise location, physical access, and safe extraction of victims trapped under debris. Upon arrival in Venezuela, the Syrian contingent will integrate with local emergency committees to define their operational areas and commence rescue efforts in close coordination with Venezuelan security forces and rescue institutions.