A specialized Syrian rescue team departed from Damascus International Airport on June 27, 2026, heading to Venezuela to assist in search-and-rescue and humanitarian operations following a recent earthquake. The deployment, ordered by President Ahmad Al-Sharaa and coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, marks Syria's first-ever international disaster response mission.
Team Composition and Equipment
The Syrian team comprises 15 search-and-rescue specialists, each equipped with individual professional gear. Heavy machinery and equipment for field operations are being provided by Qatari teams from the International Rescue Committee of Qatar’s Internal Security Force, known as Lekhwiya, as part of ongoing humanitarian cooperation.
Historic Mission
This mission represents a historic milestone for Syrian humanitarian action. It is the first time Syria has participated with an international rescue team in responding to a disaster beyond its borders, and the first time the country has deployed a national search-and-rescue team on an international mission of this scale.
Venezuelan Response
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil expressed his country’s appreciation for Syria’s solidarity. In a post on X, Gil stated: “Venezuela thanks the Syrian Arab Republic for its condolences and kind wishes to our country as we confront this tragic situation.”
