Operation Sindhu: Hundreds of Indians Evacuated from Iran Amidst Rising Tensions

The Indian government continues its mission, ‘Operation Sindhu,’ to bring back Indian nationals from Iran, with 517 citizens now safely returned. The MEA announced the arrival of an evacuation flight from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, in New Delhi on June 21. The operation was initiated due to the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. Evacuees recounted their experiences, emphasizing the initial need to seek shelter and subsequently move to other locations. The rapid response of the Indian government and the Indian Embassy in Tehran was highly commended. Several evacuees thanked Prime Minister Modi and UP CM Yogi Adityanath for their support. Many described the situation in Iran as distressing and acknowledged the government’s crucial role in their safe passage back to India. The evacuation efforts also included the safe transport of students, particularly those from Urmia Medical University, who were moved via Armenia. The conflict escalated after an Israeli airstrike, with Iran responding with drone and missile attacks on Israeli facilities, thereby necessitating the rescue operation.