India Initiates Operation to Evacuate Citizens from Israel
In response to escalating tensions in the Middle East, India has commenced efforts to evacuate its nationals from Israel. This move comes amid increasing conflict following recent military strikes in the region.
About 18,000 Indians Reside in Israel
Approximately 18,000 Indian nationals currently live in Israel. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has assured that evacuation will be available for those who wish to leave the country. Travel arrangements will involve transit via land borders before onward travel by air to India.
The MEA emphasized that the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad remains the government’s top priority. To streamline the evacuation process, all Indian residents in Israel are requested to register with the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv if they have not already done so.
Contact details for assistance include telephone numbers: +972 54-7520711 and +972 54-3278392, or email at [email protected]. The embassy has set up a 24/7 control room to handle any queries from citizens.
Operation Sindhu: Ongoing Evacuation from Iran
Parallel to the Israeli evacuation, India has already been conducting Operation Sindhu to bring back its nationals from Iran. Over 1,100 Indians, including more than 300 students, have been safely evacuated through several charter flights departing from cities like Mashhad and Ashgabat.
Just recently, a special flight carrying 290 Indians touched down in New Delhi after departing from Mashhad, marking critical progress in the operation's momentum. These efforts reflect India’s commitment to protecting its citizens amid regional instability.
Background: Escalating Conflict Between Israel and Iran
The current crisis escalated dramatically when the Israeli military launched "Operation Rising Lion," targeting Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure. Israel cited concerns over Iran’s nuclear weapons ambitions as justification for these preemptive strikes.
The situation intensified after the United States joined the campaign, carrying out airstrikes on three key nuclear sites inside Iran—the first such U.S. military actions within Iran’s borders since 1979. The U.S. President praised the operation as highly successful, underscoring the severity of the conflict.
What This Means for Indian Nationals
- India is actively coordinating departures to ensure smooth and safe transit out of conflict zones.
- Nationals are urged to stay in close contact with the embassy and remain vigilant.
- Evacuation plans are evolving alongside the fluid situation in the region.
Given the dynamic nature of the Middle East crisis, Indian authorities continue to monitor developments closely, prioritizing rapid response to any threat on their citizens abroad.
