Operation Sindhu: 380 Indian Nationals Safely Repatriated Amid Middle East Conflict
Successful Evacuation of Indian Nationals
New Delhi: On Tuesday, a total of 380 Indian citizens, comprising 219 from Iran and 161 from Israel, arrived safely in New Delhi as part of the ongoing Operation Sindhu, as confirmed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
With this latest group, India has successfully repatriated 2,295 of its nationals from Iran amidst the escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The operation's Israel segment commenced on Monday, with the first successful repatriation flight bringing 161 citizens from Amman to New Delhi on Tuesday morning.
The MEA shared on social media, stating, "292 Indian nationals were evacuated from Iran on a special flight that landed in New Delhi from Mashhad at 0330 hrs on June 24. A total of 2295 Indian nationals have now returned from Iran."
In another update, the ministry noted, "The Israel segment of Operation Sindhu began on June 23, 2025, successfully bringing home the first group of 161 Indian nationals from Israel, who arrived safely in New Delhi today at 0820 hrs from Amman, Jordan."
Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita was present at the airport to welcome the returning group.
In a statement to the media, he expressed, "I am delighted to welcome the first batch of 161 Indian nationals evacuated from Israel. They have just arrived safely at New Delhi airport."
"We are closely monitoring the situation and are dedicated to providing all necessary assistance to our citizens in Iran and Israel. Under Operation Sindhu, all nationals are arriving safely," the Minister added.
Many evacuees expressed their gratitude towards the Indian government for facilitating their safe return during perilous circumstances.
"The situation in Haifa was dire, especially following the US strikes. We are thankful that the Indian government took every measure to ensure our safe return," remarked one evacuee from Israel.
"The MEA has performed admirably. The transition was seamless, and I am grateful to the ministry for making our journey comfortable," another evacuee stated.
An elderly passenger recounted his harrowing experience: "I traveled to Israel a month ago. One day, while driving, attacks began. I panicked and took cover behind a bush. The attacks were relentless. I couldn't sleep. I am thankful to the MEA for bringing us back safely."
Similar sentiments were echoed by returnees from Iran.
"Despite the chaos, the Indian Embassy made every effort to ensure our safety and comfort. I thank the Government of India and the MEA for their support," said one returnee.
"I was among the few Indian nationals who managed to leave so easily. The Mashhad Airport was opened specifically for Indian nationals. This reflects our country's stance and the diplomacy of the Modi government," another individual noted.
"Embassy officials were attentive, ensuring we had water, food, and accommodation. We are grateful for the safe and comfortable arrangements made for us," another evacuated Indian national from Iran shared.
Operation Sindhu remains a vital mission focused on evacuating Indian nationals from conflict zones, underscoring the government's commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.