India Launches Operation Sindhu for Evacuation of Nationals Amid Iran-Israel Tensions

India has initiated 'Operation Sindhu' to rescue its nationals, predominantly students, trapped in Iran amid the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that approximately 110 Indian students from Northern Iran were safely evacuated after being directed to cross the border into Armenia.

Under the guidance of Indian diplomatic missions located in Tehran and Yerevan, the students reached Armenia securely and then embarked on a special flight from Zvartnots International Airport. Their arrival in New Delhi is anticipated in the early hours of June 19, 2025.

In a statement, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal announced, “India launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran. India evacuated 110 students from northern Iran who crossed into Armenia under the supervision of our Missions in Iran and Armenia on 17th June. They departed from Yerevan on a special flight and will arrive in New Delhi in the early hours of 19th June.”

This evacuation effort arises amidst reports of missile and drone strikes in Iran as hostilities with Israel continue to escalate. Previously, several Indian students had turned to social media to express their distress and seek prompt assistance from the Indian government.

Presently, Iran is home to more than 4,000 Indian nationals, with around 2,000 students pursuing education, particularly in medical and other professional fields, many hailing from Jammu and Kashmir.

Operation Sindhu is the latest in a string of similar missions conducted by the Indian government to ensure the safety of its citizens during international conflicts. In 2023, Operation Ajay was carried out to evacuate Indians affected by the Israel–Hamas conflict. Prior to that, in 2022, Operation Ganga was launched to safely return Indian students from Ukraine during the Russia–Ukraine war.

India's prompt action once again underscores its dedication to protecting the safety and well-being of its diaspora, even in areas beset by conflict.