India Successfully Evacuates Over 1,800 Nationals from Israel and Iran
As tensions escalate in West Asia, India has swiftly moved to bring its citizens back home through Operation Sindhu. So far, approximately 1,800 Indian nationals have been safely evacuated from both Israel and Iran.
Recent Evacuation Highlights
On the evening of June 22, a special flight carrying 285 Indians from Mashhad, Iran, landed in New Delhi. Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, personally welcomed the group at the airport, emphasizing the government's commitment to the safe return of its people. Following this arrival, the total number of evacuees from Iran has reached 1,713.
Margherita confirmed that additional flights—two to three more—are scheduled in the coming days to continue evacuation efforts. He reassured that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) remains in continuous contact with Indian nationals in both Iran and Israel.
Understanding Operation Sindhu
Launched on June 19, Operation Sindhu was initiated in direct response to the escalating missile exchanges between Israel and Iran. The Indian government acted promptly to facilitate safe passage for its citizens wishing to leave the conflict zones.
The operation includes coordinated efforts between Indian embassies and other agencies to assist evacuees. Indians in Israel are being transported to India via land borders to neighboring countries, where flights are arranged for their return.
Safety Measures and Diplomatic Coordination
The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has urged citizens to stay vigilant and adhere strictly to safety protocols laid out by Israeli authorities. The MEA has reassured that the safety of Indians abroad remains the highest priority, maintaining constant monitoring and communication with evacuees.
Notably, during the operation, Armenia played a pivotal role by providing alternative air routes when Iran and Pakistan closed their airspace. The latter's closure stems from heightened India-Pakistan tensions after a recent terror incident.
Challenges Amid Geopolitical Tensions
With hostilities intensifying, logistical hurdles such as restricted airspace have complicated evacuation routes. Despite these challenges, India's coordinated embassy efforts and international cooperation have successfully ensured a steady flow of citizens returning safely.
What Lies Ahead
- Continued evacuation flights from Iran and neighboring countries.
- Close monitoring of the evolving West Asia conflict.
- Further diplomatic engagement to safeguard all Indians in the region.
The government emphasizes its unwavering commitment to the welfare of its diaspora amid ongoing unrest, signaling readiness to bolster assistance as the situation unfolds.
