Operation Sindhu: India evacuates Indians from conflict-hit Israel | Fusion - WeRIndia

As tensions escalate between Iran and Israel, India has launched Operation Sindhu to bring home its citizens stranded in the region.

On Sunday, the Indian missions in Israel and Jordan successfully evacuated the first group of 160 Indian nationals.

With Israeli airspace closed and commercial flights suspended, the evacuation came as a major relief.

The evacuees, under constant threat from missiles and drones, had taken shelter in bunkers for days. They gathered early Sunday at designated points in Tel Aviv and Haifa.

Embassy officials then transported them to the Sheikh Hussein Bridge on the Israel-Jordan border, 120 km away.

After immigration formalities, the group continued to Amman Airport. Another 120 km journey followed. They are set to fly to India early Monday on a special evacuation flight.

The Indian Embassy in Amman arranged their accommodation and transportation. Both Israeli and Jordanian authorities extended crucial support at the border.

India launched Operation Sindhu last week amid growing regional hostilities. A 24/7 control room in Tel Aviv monitors the situation and coordinates the mission.

Evacuation priorities focused on medical emergencies, children, women, and students. Embassy staff contacted registrants via phone and email for flight details.

The evacuees praised the process as smooth and carefully planned. Also, they noted the embassy’s active help throughout the journey.

The Ministry of External Affairs has arranged special flights from Amman to New Delhi. Some flights from Egypt are also planned in the coming days.

Over 40,000 Indians live in Israel. Many work as caregivers, construction workers, students, or professionals.

The Indian government is closely monitoring the crisis. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is receiving real-time updates on the situation.

India’s past missions, Ganga, Devi Shakti, Kaveri, and Ajay, highlight its global readiness. Operation Sindhu continues this legacy.

The Indian mission in Israel urges all citizens to register and stay updated. A 24/7 helpline remains active for assistance.

This effort once again reflects India’s firm commitment to protect its people abroad, whatever the cost, or otherwise.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on March 25, 2017

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1265056