India Initiates 'Operation Sindhu' to Rescue Nationals from Iran
India has launched Operation Sindhu, a strategic evacuation effort to bring its citizens safely out of Iran as tensions escalate between Iran and Israel. On June 18, the Indian government successfully evacuated 110 students from northern Iran, transporting them to safety via Armenia.
Evacuation Amid Rising Hostilities
The ongoing conflict has put thousands of Indian nationals, many of whom are students, at risk across Iran. Reports surfaced of Indian students suffering injuries during a strike targeting a medical students' dormitory in Tehran’s Keshavarz street area. Following this, the Iranian embassy in Delhi confirmed that their foreign ministry is closely coordinating with the Indian mission in Tehran to address the situation.
Safe Passage via Armenia
The rescued students made a road journey from northern Iran to Yerevan, Armenia's capital, under close supervision from Indian diplomatic missions in both countries. From Yerevan, they boarded a special flight on June 18 that will bring them back to New Delhi in the early hours of June 19. This marks the initial phase of India’s broader evacuation plan.
Government's Commitment to Safety
The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that the safety and security of Indian nationals overseas remains a top priority. With over 4,000 Indians residing in Iran, roughly half of whom are students, the government has intensified efforts to relocate nationals from conflict zones within Iran to safer areas before evacuation.
Embassy teams are actively assisting large groups of nationals to navigate through safer regions to facilitate subsequent evacuations based on available options.
Guidance for Indians in Iran
The Indian government urges all nationals in Iran to remain in constant contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran. An emergency helpline and a 24/7 control room in New Delhi are operational to provide assistance and updates, ensuring ongoing support amid the volatile situation.
International Cooperation
India has expressed its gratitude to the governments of Iran and Armenia for their cooperation in enabling smooth transit and safe passage during this challenging operation.
