New Delhi/Tel Aviv, June 20: India will evacuate its citizens from Israel under a new mission dubbed ‘Operation Sindhu’, the foreign ministry said on Thursday, as tensions surge in the region following intensified hostilities between Israel and Iran.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced that the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv will facilitate the evacuation of Indian nationals currently residing in Israel. The move follows a similar operation earlier in the day that saw 110 Indian students evacuated from northern Iran.
“The Embassy of India in Tel Aviv would be making arrangements for the evacuation of Indians,” the ministry said in a statement. “All Indian nationals are requested to register themselves with the Embassy if not already done.”
The embassy has established a 24/7 control room to coordinate the evacuation. Indian nationals in Israel can contact the control room through the following telephone numbers: +972 54-7520711 and +972 54-3278392, or email: cons1.telaviv@mea.gov.in.
The Indian government reiterated its commitment to the safety of its citizens abroad. “The Government of India accords the highest priority to the safety and security of Indian nationals. We will continue to monitor the situation closely,” the MEA said, adding that the embassy remains in constant contact with the Indian community in Israel.
Indian authorities also urged citizens to remain alert and adhere strictly to safety advisories issued by Israeli officials.
The evacuation efforts come amid an escalating military confrontation between Israel and Iran. The conflict flared last week after Israel launched a series of strikes under ‘Operation Rising Lion’, targeting Iranian military and nuclear installations. Israeli officials claimed the strikes were necessary to counter Iran’s alleged progress towards developing nuclear weapons.
Since then, both nations have exchanged barrages of missiles and drones, striking multiple military and strategic sites, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. India’s evacuation initiative underscores growing concern over the safety of its citizens in conflict zones across the Middle East.
