As the conflict between Israel and Iran intensifies, India has launched "Operation Sindhu" to evacuate its citizens from the war-hit region. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has been closely monitoring the situation and taking steps to ensure the safety and security of Indian nationals in Iran.
In the first phase of this operation, 110 Indian students, primarily from northern Iran, were successfully evacuated. These students were transported overland to Armenia on June 17, under the supervision of Indian missions in both Iran and Armenia. On June 18, they departed from Yerevan on a special flight at 14:55 IST and are expected to arrive in New Delhi in the early hours of June 19. Of these students, 90 are from Jammu and Kashmir. The Jammu and Kashmir Students' Association (JKSA) expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for their timely intervention and support.
The MEA has expressed its gratitude to the Iranian and Armenian governments for their cooperation in facilitating the safe passage of the evacuees. The Indian Embassy in Tehran has been instrumental in assisting Indian nationals to move from high-risk areas to safer zones within Iran, while coordinating the subsequent evacuation.
The Indian government has reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and security of its citizens abroad, emphasizing that it is according the highest priority to this matter. A 24x7 Control Room has been established in New Delhi to monitor the situation and provide assistance to those in need.
Indian nationals in Iran have been advised to remain in close contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran through its emergency helpline, as well as with the MEA's 24x7 Control Room in New Delhi. The embassy is also assisting other nationals to relocate from high-risk zones to safer regions within Iran.
The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has led to increased tensions in the Middle East, prompting India to take proactive measures to safeguard its citizens. The launch of Operation Sindhu demonstrates India's commitment to the welfare of its nationals in distress, and its ability to respond effectively to crises in the region.
As the situation continues to unfold, further stages of Operation Sindhu are expected to continue, with the Indian government closely monitoring developments and working to ensure the safe return of all Indian nationals who wish to leave Iran.
The MEA has provided emergency contact information for the Indian Embassy in Tehran and the 24x7 Control Room in New Delhi, urging Indian nationals in Iran to make use of these resources.
