Ongoing Evacuation of Indian Nationals from Iran Amid Rising Tensions

The Indian government is executing 'Operation Sindhu' to evacuate its citizens from Iran due to escalating military tensions. With multiple flights already completed and more planned, the Ministry of External Affairs is ensuring the safe return of all stranded nationals. Evacuees have shared their harrowing experiences, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The government has set up 24-hour helplines and is coordinating with foreign embassies to facilitate the process. As the crisis unfolds, the commitment to continue these operations remains strong.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 19, 2025, 12:12 IST

Evacuation Efforts Underway

New Delhi, June 19: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has announced that the evacuation of Indian citizens from Iran, dubbed 'Operation Sindhu', is currently in progress, with another flight scheduled to return more individuals later today.

This initiative is a response to the escalating military conflicts in the Middle East.

Earlier today, a special IndiGo flight (6E 9487) successfully transported 110 Indian students from Urmia Medical University, landing at Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.

Kirti Vardhan Singh, the Minister of State for External Affairs, welcomed the evacuees at the airport, assuring them that the Indian government is diligently working to facilitate the safe return of all stranded nationals.

"We are committed to ensuring the safe return of every Indian citizen from Iran. This is a significant responsibility, and we are dedicated to fulfilling it. More aircraft are on standby," Singh informed the media.

Singh noted that over 350 requests for evacuation have been received, and the MEA, in collaboration with Indian embassies worldwide, has established 24-hour helplines to manage the ongoing situation.

"Another flight is scheduled today to evacuate individuals from Turkmenistan. Our missions have activated 24-hour helplines to process evacuation requests. As the situation develops, we will deploy additional planes or charter flights to assist all Indian nationals in Iran," he stated.

He also expressed gratitude to the governments of Turkmenistan and Armenia for their support in ensuring safe transit during these challenging times.

Among those who returned on Wednesday were students who recounted their distressing experiences.

"During the war, we were uncertain about what would happen next. We were hopeful for prompt action, which our government and embassy in Iran provided. They were incredibly helpful. When they arrived at our doorstep to take us home, I thought of my mother and felt immense joy," shared Mir Salif, a medical student from Urmia.

"Missiles were everywhere, and our neighborhood was devastated. We were filled with uncertainty. I hope this conflict ends and never recurs anywhere else," he added.

"Due to the closure of airspace, we were evacuated through ground borders and were airlifted to India within a day—back to our homeland. I am truly grateful to the government and the Ministry of External Affairs," he concluded.

The MEA has reiterated its commitment to continue the evacuation operation as long as necessary, with additional charter flights being organized to bring more Indians back from the affected regions.