India Extends "Operation Sindhu" to Israel Amid Escalating Mideast Tensions

In a swift and decisive move reflecting mounting concerns over the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, India announced on Thursday its decision to expand "Operation Sindhu" to include the evacuation of Indian nationals from Israel. This extension comes just a day after the operation was launched to bring Indians home from Iran, underscoring the government's unwavering commitment to the safety of its citizens abroad.

As Iranian strikes targeted Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv, the Indian government deemed it necessary to initiate the evacuation process for the approximately 38,000 Indian nationals currently residing in Israel. These individuals comprise a diverse community, primarily caregivers assisting Israeli elders, alongside diamond traders, construction and agriculture workers, IT professionals, and students.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that arrangements are being made by the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv to facilitate the departure of those who wish to leave. Their journey will involve transit through land borders, followed by air travel back to India. The government has urged all Indian nationals in Israel to register themselves with the Indian embassy in Tel Aviv immediately to streamline the evacuation efforts.

"The Government of India accords the highest priority to the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad," a government statement emphasized. "The government will continue to monitor the situation closely. The Embassy remains continuously in touch with the community with a view to extending all feasible assistance."

Meanwhile, "Operation Sindhu" has already seen its first success with a special flight arriving in Delhi on Thursday, carrying 110 Indian students from Urmia Medical University in Iran, via Yerevan. Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, was on hand at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport to personally welcome the evacuees. He confirmed that the government has received evacuation requests from around 350 Indian citizens in Iran.

"We, on our part, are making every effort to ensure the safe return of all Indian nationals from Iran. It is a major responsibility, and we are committed to fulfilling it. We have more planes on standby," Minister Singh assured media persons, highlighting India's readiness to continue its humanitarian mission.

The unfolding situation in the Middle East has prompted a rapid response from New Delhi, showcasing India's robust capabilities in managing complex international crises and prioritizing the well-being of its extensive diaspora.