As tensions continue to escalate across West Asia, India has intensified its evacuation efforts under Operation Sindhu, aimed at safely bringing home Indian nationals stranded in Iran and Israel. In the latest update, Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita confirmed that 1,713 Indian citizens have been evacuated so far from both countries under this crucial mission.
Operation Sindhu: India's Urgent Evacuation of Citizens from Iran and Israel
On Sunday night, 285 Indians arrived in New Delhi on a special flight from Mashhad, Iran, marking the latest success in the ongoing mission. Additional flights from Iran are scheduled over the next two days, as efforts continue to scale up in response to growing security concerns in the region.
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Why India Launched Operation Sindhu: Addressing the West Asia Crisis
Operation Sindhu was launched by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) following a surge in hostilities in West Asia, especially after US military strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, which triggered widespread instability. Simultaneously, increasing threats in Israel, due to the volatile security environment, also necessitated urgent action to evacuate Indian nationals.
“The Ministry is in constant contact with all Indian nationals residing in Iran and Israel regarding Operation Sindhu,” Minister Margherita stated.
The dual evacuation effort highlights India’s proactive diplomacy and crisis response capabilities in a highly unpredictable geopolitical environment, ensuring the safety of its citizens abroad.
How Operation Sindhu is Coordinated by the Indian Government
The Indian government has implemented a multi-pronged strategy for Operation Sindhu, involving:
- Deployment of special evacuation flights for Indian citizens
- Ground coordination by embassies in Tehran and Tel Aviv
- Real-time communication via emergency helplines for Indian nationals
In Iran, the Embassy is actively helping Indian nationals move from conflict zones to safer regions, while coordinating with local authorities and the Indian Air Force (IAF) and commercial airlines for airlifts. In Israel, Indian nationals are being supported with timely transportation, shelter, and repatriation as part of the ongoing Operation Sindhu.
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Emergency Contact Information for Indian Nationals During Operation Sindhu
Embassy of India in Tehran (Iran) – Emergency Helplines for Evacuation:
- Phone: +98 9128109115, +98 9128109109
- WhatsApp: +98 901044557, +98 9015993320, +91 8086871709
- Regional Numbers:
- Bandar Abbas: +98 9177699036
- Zahedan: +98 9396356649
- Email: [email protected]
24x7 MEA Control Room – New Delhi for Operation Sindhu Updates:
- Toll-Free: 1800-118-797
- Landlines: +91-11-23012113, 23014104, 23017905
- WhatsApp: +91-9968291988
- Email: [email protected]
What Indian Nationals Should Do During Operation Sindhu
- Indian citizens currently in Iran or Israel are strongly advised to:
- Remain in close contact with the Indian Embassy regarding Operation Sindhu updates.
- Follow all safety instructions and avoid high-risk areas.
- Register with the embassy if they haven't already for evacuation assistance.
- Keep documents ready for potential evacuation notifications.
The MEA’s Control Room in Delhi remains active 24/7 to assist families in India with updates and support concerning the ongoing Operation Sindhu.
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Operation Sindhu: India's Commitment to Citizen Safety Abroad
The success of the Operation Sindhu evacuation from Iran and Israel demonstrates India’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of its citizens, even amid complex international crises. With over 1,700 people already brought back safely, and more flights on the way, this humanitarian operation reflects a well-coordinated, humanitarian-first approach during one of the most volatile periods in recent West Asian history.
As the situation continues to evolve, India’s focus remains on peace, protection, and proactive diplomacy through efforts like Operation Sindhu.