Amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, India has launched "Operation Sindhu" to safely evacuate its citizens from the region. The first flight, carrying 110 Indian citizens, predominantly students, successfully landed in New Delhi on Thursday, June 19, 2025. The students were evacuated from Iran to Yerevan, Armenia, before being flown back to India.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that Indian students residing in Tehran had been safely relocated from the city through the coordinated efforts of the Indian Embassy. The students were initially moved out of northern Iran into Armenia under the supervision of Indian Missions in Iran and Armenia on June 17. They then departed from Yerevan on a special flight, eventually arriving in New Delhi in the early hours of June 19. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal conveyed the successful commencement of Operation Sindhu via social media, emphasizing India's commitment to the safety and security of its nationals abroad.
Many of the evacuated students recounted their experiences in Iran, describing a tense and fearful atmosphere. Some students reported witnessing missile attacks and bombings in their vicinity, turning their academic pursuits into a harrowing ordeal. One student, Mir Khalif, an MBBS student, told reporters that he saw missiles in the sky and heard bombs in his neighborhood, expressing his hope of never seeing such days again. Another student said they saw drones and missiles and were scared. Students expressed relief and gratitude to the Indian government for their safe return.
The returnees included a significant number of students from Jammu and Kashmir. The J&K government arranged special transportation for these students to ensure a smooth journey back to their homes. J&K CM Omar Abdullah lauded the coordinated effort by state and central authorities. While some students expressed concerns about the condition of the bus provided, the government addressed these concerns and ensured their safe passage.
Several students and their parents have expressed gratitude to the Indian government, particularly the Ministry of External Affairs, for their swift action. Some have also appealed to the Indian Embassy to expedite the evacuation of other Indian citizens still stranded in Iran, specifically in cities like Isfahan and Tehran. Haider Ali, father of an MBBS student, expressed happiness and gratitude but also conveyed his concern for those still in Tehran.
The Indian government has assured its citizens that it is closely monitoring the situation and is committed to ensuring their safety. The MEA has advised Indian nationals remaining in Iran to stay in contact with the Indian Embassy in Tehran and the MEA's 24/7 Control Room in New Delhi. The MEA has provided emergency contact numbers and email addresses for those requiring assistance.
As the regional crisis continues, additional phases of Operation Sindhu are anticipated. The successful evacuation of the initial group of students provides a sense of relief and underscores India's dedication to protecting its citizens in challenging international circumstances. The coordinated efforts of the Indian government, the Indian Embassies in Iran and Armenia, and the support from the Armenian government have been crucial in the success of this operation.
