Amidst escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, India has launched "Operation Sindhu" to evacuate its citizens, primarily students, from the conflict zone. The first wave of this operation saw 110 Indian students return to New Delhi on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, bringing relief and gratitude alongside accounts of fear and uncertainty.
The students, mostly from Jammu and Kashmir and enrolled at Urmia University, were initially moved from northern Iran to Armenia under the supervision of Indian missions in both countries. From Yerevan, the Armenian capital, they boarded a special flight that landed in Delhi, marking the end of a long and anxious journey. Many students described the situation in Iran as "bad" and "critical," with locals gripped by fear due to the ongoing conflict.
"We are happy to return here, but we are also worried about our studies," said Sheikh Afsa, one of the evacuees, highlighting the mixed emotions of relief and concern for the future. Another student praised the Indian government for its prompt action, stating, "The (Indian) government literally evacuated us from our dormitory, from our doors. We didn't even expect this much."
Operation Sindhu was initiated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in response to the escalating tensions. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted that the students were transported from northern Iran to Armenia before being flown to Delhi. This swift action underscores India's commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad.
Students recounted their experiences of witnessing missiles and bombings, with one student describing the experience as a "nightmare." "We saw missiles in the sky and heard bombs in our neighborhood. We were petrified," said Mir Khalif, an MBBS student. He also expressed his gratitude to the Indian government for ensuring their safe return.
The evacuation process was not without its challenges. Some students raised concerns about the condition of the buses provided for their journey home from Delhi, prompting the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister's office to address the issue and arrange for better transportation.
Despite the immediate relief, concerns remain for those still stranded in Iran. One student urged the Indian Embassy to expedite the evacuation of others in Isfahan and Tehran, emphasizing the critical situation in those areas. It is estimated that over 4,000 Indian nationals reside in Iran, half of whom are students. The Indian government has assured that further evacuation missions are likely as the regional crisis deepens.
This evacuation highlights the delicate balancing act India has maintained in its foreign policy. India and Iran have a long history of friendly relations, dating back millennia, with official diplomatic ties established in 1950. Iran is a key supplier of crude oil to India, and the two countries have cooperated on various projects, including the development of the Chabahar Port as a major regional trade hub. However, India also maintains strong relations with Israel, and has refrained from explicitly condemning Israeli actions in the conflict.
As the situation in the Middle East remains volatile, India's focus remains on ensuring the safety of its citizens and navigating the complex diplomatic landscape. Operation Sindhu stands as a testament to India's proactive approach in safeguarding its people amidst international crises, even as it seeks to maintain its strategic interests and relationships in the region.
