In a significant diplomatic development, Iran has granted special permission to ease airspace restrictions for three evacuation flights from Tehran to India, allowing the safe return of approximately 1,000 Indian nationals, mostly students and pilgrims.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the evacuees were initially moved from Mashhad to Tehran for coordinated airlifts amid ongoing regional tensions. Iranian airlines will operate the three special flights, with the first arriving in India on Friday night and the remaining two expected to land by Saturday afternoon.
This evacuation is part of Operation Sindhu, a mission launched by the Indian government in response to escalating hostilities in the region following Israel’s recent airstrikes in Iran, including on its capital city, Tehran.
Officials reassured that all Indian citizens in Iran are currently safe, and additional flights will be arranged if the need arises. Iran had earlier shut down its airspace after the strikes, prompting emergency planning by Indian authorities.
Upon landing in New Delhi, several evacuated students expressed relief and gratitude, thanking the Indian government for facilitating their return directly from their dormitories. “The government literally evacuated us from our doors,” said Sheikh Afsa, one of the students onboard the first return flight. “People in Iran are scared, the situation is bad, and the support we received from Indian authorities was beyond expectation.”
Another student returning from Urmia added, “While things seemed calm in our region, the situation in other parts of Iran was concerning. Thanks to the Indian government, we are home safe.”
Meanwhile, in a parallel effort, the MEA has announced plans to evacuate Indian nationals from Israel as well. Arrangements are being made to facilitate travel via land routes followed by flights to India. The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has urged citizens to register themselves on the official website and contact the embassy’s 24/7 control room for any assistance.
“The safety of Indian nationals overseas remains a top priority,” the MEA emphasized. “The government is monitoring the situation closely and is committed to extending all necessary support.”
These coordinated evacuation operations highlight India’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens abroad amidst growing geopolitical unrest in West Asia.
