Operation Sindhu: IAF repatriates 165 Indians from Israel
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New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Tuesday successfully evacuated 165 Indian nationals from war-hit Israel as part of the Government of India’s ongoing Operation Sindhu, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed.
The IAF deployed its C-17 Globemaster aircraft for the mission, facilitating the safe return of Indian citizens as well as nationals from friendly neighbouring countries such as Nepal and Sri Lanka. This operation marks a significant phase in India’s broader repatriation efforts amid escalating tensions in West Asia.
Announcing the development on X, the MEA stated: “Operation Sindhu: An IAF C-17 flight evacuated 165 Indian nationals from Israel under Operation Sindhu. They were received by MoS Dr. L. Murugan upon arrival in Delhi. The aircraft landed at 0845 hrs on 24th June from Amman.”
The IAF also shared updates on social media, underscoring its readiness in times of crisis. “In response to heightened tensions in conflict-affected areas in West Asia, IAF C-17 aircraft commenced missions from Jordan and Egypt to extricate Indian nationals and citizens of friendly countries. The IAF remains committed as first responders to provide assistance within the country and across the globe in times of need,” it stated.
Earlier on Tuesday, the MEA had confirmed that the Israel leg of Operation Sindhu commenced on Monday, June 23, through Jordan. The first successful repatriation flight, carrying 161 Indian citizens from Amman, landed in New Delhi on Tuesday morning.
Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita was present at the Indira Gandhi International Airport to personally welcome the evacuees.
The minister expressed his satisfaction at the safe arrival of the group. “I am very happy to welcome the first batch of 161 Indian nationals evacuated from Israel. This group has safely arrived just a short while ago at New Delhi airport,” he said.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and are committed to providing all possible and necessary assistance to our citizens in Iran and Israel. Under Operation Sindhu, all the nationals are arriving safely,” the Minister of State added.
Meanwhile, the evacuation process from Iran is also underway. According to the MEA, a total of 2,290 Indian nationals have already been brought back from Iran as part of the same operation.
Operation Sindhu is a coordinated strategic initiative launched by the Indian government to ensure the safe and timely repatriation of Indian citizens stranded in conflict zones in Israel and Iran.
With IANS inputs