India Steps Up as Regional Guardian Amid Iran-Israel Conflict
Operation Sindhu is India’s ongoing evacuation mission to bring back its nationals from Iran amid the conflict with Israel, which began on June 13 following Israel’s large-scale airstrike, Operation Rising Lion, targeting Iranian nuclear and military assets.
In response, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps retaliated with Operation True Promise 3, launching missile and drone attacks on Israeli fuel and energy sites. The rapid deterioration in regional security prompted India to act swiftly to ensure the safety of its citizens.
India’s Humanitarian Role Grows
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the Indian Embassy in Iran confirmed:
“On request of the Governments of Nepal and Sri Lanka, the Indian Embassy’s evacuation efforts in Iran will also cover citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka.”
Helpline numbers for assistance:
📞 +989010144557 | +989128109115 | +989128109109
The embassy has urged all Nepalese and Sri Lankan nationals to reach out via Telegram or the emergency numbers for immediate coordination.
Latest Update: 517 Indians Evacuated
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal revealed that a special evacuation flight from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, landed in New Delhi on June 21 at 3 AM, carrying Indians returning from Iran. With this flight, 517 Indian nationals have returned safely under Operation Sindhu.
A History of India’s Evacuation Efforts
- Operation Ajay (2023) – Evacuation from Israel during the Israel-Hamas conflict
- Operation Kaveri (2023) – Rescue from civil war-hit Sudan
- Operation Ganga (2022) – Rescue from Ukraine during Russia’s invasion
- Operation Devi Shakti (2021) – Evacuation from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan
- Operation Samudra Setu (2020) – Sea route repatriation during COVID-19
- Operation Raahat (2015) – Rescue from civil war in Yemen
- Operation Safe Homecoming (2011) – Evacuation from Libya during the Arab Spring
Why This Matters
In a time of global uncertainty, India’s inclusivity and diplomatic agility in helping neighboring countries like Nepal and Sri Lanka not only strengthens regional ties but also enhances its international humanitarian image.
This approach reflects the Neighbourhood First Policy, where India aims to stand by its smaller neighbors in times of distress.
Final Thoughts
India’s proactive diplomacy during crises sends a strong message of solidarity and swift response. As Operation Sindhu unfolds, it stands as another chapter in India’s track record of humanitarian rescue missions, not just for its own but also for neighbors in need.