In a high-stakes international rescue mission, India has begun evacuating nearly 1,000 of its nationals from Iran, under Operation Sindhu, after receiving a special concession from Tehran to allow the use of Iranian airspace.
The move comes in the wake of the escalating military confrontation between Israel and Iran, which has endangered foreign nationals, including a large population of Indian students residing in Tehran.
Evacuation Flights Begin from Mashhad
As part of the operation, three chartered Mahan Air flights are being operated from Mashhad, where Indian citizens had been relocated after Israeli air strikes hit Tehran. The first flight is expected to land in New Delhi by Friday evening, with two more scheduled on Saturday.
“Iran’s airspace is closed, but we are making special arrangements to open it for the safe passage of Indian nationals,” said Mohammad Javad Hosseini, Deputy Chief of Mission, Iranian Embassy, during a press briefing.
Indian Diplomacy in Action
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Indian Embassy in Tehran are actively coordinating the mission with Iranian authorities to ensure all citizens, particularly students, are moved safely. The affected nationals were previously transferred from Tehran to Qom, and then to Mashhad, away from the conflict zone.
Possibility of More Flights
Hosseini stated that if required, additional flights could be arranged in the coming days. India is also exploring land routes through Armenia and other third countries, a method that recently brought home 110 Indian students via Armenia.
“We see Indians as our own people,” said Hosseini, reaffirming Iran’s commitment to assist in the evacuation process.
Operation Sindhu
⚠️ Situation on the Ground
While confirming the safety of the majority, Iranian officials did mention some Indian students were injured in a recent Israeli missile strike on a student dormitory in Tehran. The Indian government has not yet disclosed the exact number of injuries.
Why Operation Sindhu Matters
This mission not only exemplifies India’s swift diplomatic action but also highlights the growing risks faced by Indians abroad amid rising geopolitical tensions. Similar to Operation Ganga (Ukraine) and Operation Devi Shakti (Afghanistan), Operation Sindhu reiterates India’s commitment to the safety of its citizens worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is Operation Sindhu? It is India’s emergency mission to evacuate its citizens from conflict-hit Iran, particularly after tensions with Israel escalated.
Q2: How many Indians are being evacuated? Approximately 1,000 Indians, mostly students, are being evacuated through three charter flights.
Q3: What airlines are operating the evacuation flights? Iranian carrier Mahan Air is operating the flights with coordination from Indian authorities.
Q4: Which cities are involved in the evacuation process? Indians were relocated from Tehran to Qom, then to Mashhad, from where the flights to New Delhi are being operated.
Q5: Is this airspace opening a special gesture by Iran? Yes, Iran has temporarily lifted airspace restrictions specifically for India to evacuate its citizens.
Q6: Are more evacuation flights expected? Yes, more flights may be arranged depending on the situation and remaining evacuees.
