Operation Sindhu in full swing as 506 Indians flown out from Israel-Iran conflict zone in bold government-led effort
by Utsav Roy
On June 25, the Government of India successfully evacuated 506 Indian nationals from Israel and Iran as part of its ongoing Operation Sindhu, initiated to ensure the safe return of citizens amid the intensifying conflict between the two nations.
As per the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), a flight carrying 224 Indian nationals from Israel landed in New Delhi, while another flight from Mashhad, Iran, arrived earlier the same day, bringing home 282 citizens. A subsequent evacuation flight from Iran is also scheduled to arrive later in the day.
Sharing the update on social media platform X, the MEA spokesperson stated: “#OperationSindhu update: MoS Ms. Shobha Karandlaje welcomed 224 Indian nationals returning from Israel on an IAF aircraft at 10:30 hrs on 25th June. Ensuring the safety of Indian citizens remains a top priority for the government. So far, 818 nationals have returned from Israel under Operation Sindhu.”
In a separate post, the MEA confirmed: “#OperationSindhu: 282 Indian nationals were evacuated from Mashhad, Iran, and arrived in New Delhi at 00:01 hrs on 25th June. With this, 2,858 citizens have been brought back from Iran.”
The group returning from Israel flew in on a C-17 Indian Air Force aircraft that landed at the Palam Air Base. Authorities are also preparing for another evacuation flight from Iran expected later in the day.
Operation Sindhu was launched in response to the escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran, with a mission to ensure the safety and repatriation of Indian nationals trapped in the affected zones. The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated its dedication to protecting Indian citizens living and working in global conflict areas.
With joint coordination among the MEA, Indian Air Force, and other key agencies, the operation demonstrates India’s firm commitment to its people. Evacuation efforts will remain active until every Indian who wishes to return is safely back home.