Intensifying Military Conflict Between Israel and Iran: India Evacuates Citizens
Escalation of Hostilities
The military confrontation between Israel and Iran intensified on Wednesday, marking the sixth consecutive day of missile exchanges between the two nations. According to reports, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have launched a Fattah-1 hypersonic missile at Israel, marking its first deployment in the ongoing conflict. In light of the escalating situation, India has taken measures to ensure the safety of its citizens by facilitating their evacuation.
Evacuation of Indian Students
On Tuesday, the Ministry of External Affairs announced that Indian students in Tehran were being evacuated for safety reasons, with 110 individuals successfully crossing into Armenia. The embassy coordinated this operation to ensure their safe passage.
The ministry stated that it remains in continuous contact with the community to provide all possible assistance. In its statement, it emphasized that students in Tehran were evacuated due to security concerns, and arrangements were made by the embassy. Additionally, those who could arrange their own transportation were advised to leave the city considering the circumstances.
Ongoing Support and Advisory
The ministry indicated that further advisories may be issued due to the unstable situation. According to the Jammu Kashmir Student Union, 110 Indian students from Urmia Medical University, including 90 from the Kashmir Valley, have safely reached Armenia. The Indian embassy in Tehran also advised all Indian nationals and Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) to move to safer locations outside the city if they could do so using their own resources.
Emergency Measures and Coordination
In response to the ongoing developments between Iran and Israel, the Ministry of External Affairs has established a 24-hour control room. Individuals can contact the control room at the following numbers: +989010144557; +989128109115; +989128109109. Additionally, the Indian embassy in Iran has set up an emergency helpline, and the ministry has shared contact details for assistance.
During a press conference, Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar was asked whether Israel had received any requests for the evacuation of Indian citizens. He confirmed that they are fully coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs and have begun preparations through their transportation ministry for the evacuation of Indian nationals. Options for diplomats and other foreign citizens wishing to leave the country include land and sea routes.
Casualties in Israel
When questioned about casualties in Israel due to the military clashes, Azar reported that 24 individuals have died and hundreds have been injured so far.