Amidst escalating tensions in the region, a flight carrying Indian students has landed in Delhi after Iran made a special concession to open its airspace. This move facilitates the safe return of Indian nationals, predominantly students, who were stranded in the country due to the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.
The decision to open Iranian airspace came as part of "Operation Sindhu," an initiative launched by the Indian government to evacuate its citizens from Iran and Israel in response to the growing security concerns. The first chartered flight, carrying Indian students, arrived in Delhi on Friday evening, with two more flights scheduled for Saturday. These flights are expected to bring approximately 1,000 Indian nationals back home.
Mohammad Javad Hosseini, the deputy chief of mission at the Iranian embassy in Delhi, stated that Iran considers Indians as their own people, explaining the decision to make arrangements for their safe passage despite the closure of Iranian airspace to most international flights. He also mentioned the possibility of arranging additional evacuation flights if needed in the coming days, highlighting Iran's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Indian nationals.
The evacuation efforts were coordinated by the Indian government, with Iranian carrier Mahan operating the flights. Following Israeli strikes on Tehran, Indian nationals were relocated from the capital to Mashhad to ensure their safety prior to evacuation.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has been working closely with the Indian embassy in Tehran and Iranian authorities to facilitate the safe passage of Indian citizens. Besides air evacuation, arrangements are also being made for those who wish to return via road through third countries.
Prior to this evacuation flight, 110 Indian students were transported from Iran to Armenia via land crossing. They then boarded a special flight from Yerevan, landing in Delhi earlier this week. The Indian government expressed gratitude to both Iran and Armenia for their assistance in facilitating the safe passage of its citizens.
The recent escalation in hostilities between Iran and Israel, including airstrikes on Tehran, prompted India to launch "Operation Sindhu." The operation reflects India's commitment to the safety and security of its citizens abroad, with the MEA emphasizing that it accords the highest priority to this matter.
It is estimated that over 4,000 Indian nationals reside in Iran, with a significant portion being students. The Indian embassy in Tehran has been actively assisting Indian nationals in moving from areas experiencing increased hostilities to safer locations within the country.
The safe arrival of the first evacuation flight in Delhi brings relief to the families of the students and marks a significant step in India's efforts to protect its citizens in conflict zones. As "Operation Sindhu" continues, the focus remains on ensuring the safe return of all Indian nationals who wish to leave Iran amidst the ongoing tensions.
