In a significant development amid the escalating Iran-Israel conflict, Iran has made an exception by reopening its airspace exclusively for Indian evacuation flights. This decision comes despite the country's broader airspace closure following heightened cross-border hostilities with Israel. The move is aimed at facilitating the evacuations of Indians from Iran, particularly students stranded due to the growing regional unrest.
Under the Indian government’s evacuation initiative, Operation Sindhu, special chartered flights have been arranged by Mahan Air from Mashhad, Iran. Approximately 1,000 Indian nationals are expected to be brought home through this mission. The first flight under this operation is scheduled to land in New Delhi tonight, marking a crucial milestone in India’s efforts to ensure the safety of its citizens caught in the crossfire of the Iran-Israel war.
“We have scheduled these chartered flights for the Indians who want to get out,” officials confirmed, stressing that the mission's priority is the safe return of Indian nationals amid rising regional instability.
The operation was initiated two days ago following a rapid deterioration in the Middle East security situation, with continued Israeli military strikes inside Iran widening the scope of the conflict. Responding swiftly, the Indian government activated Operation Sindhu, aimed at securing the safe passage and return of its citizens from conflict zones.
Also Read: Over 100 Indian students rescued from Iran land in New Delhi
As a first step, 110 Indian students stranded in northern Iran were evacuated and transported across the border into Armenia. This leg of the journey was executed with close coordination between Indian diplomatic missions in Iran and Armenia. The students boarded a special evacuation flight from Yerevan at 2:55 pm on June 18 and arrived safely in New Delhi in the early hours of Thursday.
Building on this success, the Indian government has also launched evacuation efforts for nationals in Israel, where the ongoing hostilities with Iran have sparked new security concerns. The evacuation of Indians from Israel will begin via land routes, after which they will be flown back to India. The Embassy of India in Tel Aviv has been tasked with managing logistics, documentation, and transportation for those seeking to return.
With tensions in the Middle East at a critical level, India's rapid response through Operation Sindhu underscores its commitment to protecting its citizens abroad during international crises. Both evacuation efforts—from Iran and Israel—highlight the government’s diplomatic agility and the importance of coordination in high-risk environments.
Also Read: Indian students recall 'horror' of Iran-Israel war, thank GoI
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