India has kicked off a major evacuation mission—Operation Sindhu—to bring back its citizens from Iran as tensions with Israel threaten to spiral into a full-blown conflict. The first flight with over 100 Indian students is already on its way home, with many more expected to follow.
Why Operation Sindhu Matters
Let’s break it down. With the situation between Iran and Israel getting worse by the day and fears of military action rising, India isn’t taking any chances when it comes to the safety of its people abroad.
The Indian government, through its embassy in Tehran, has been keeping a close watch and moving fast. On June 17, 110 Indian students from northern Iran were safely guided across the border into Armenia. From there, they boarded a special flight out of Yerevan on June 18 and are scheduled to land in New Delhi in the early hours of June 19, 2025.
Some Indians Injured, Says Iranian Embassy
Not everything has gone smoothly, though. According to Iranian embassy officials, some Indian students were injured in a strike. Thankfully, Iran’s foreign ministry has been coordinating closely with Indian diplomats to help with relief and evacuation efforts.
India Thanks Iran and Armenia for Support
In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the government is grateful to both Iran and Armenia for helping facilitate the evacuation.
“India accords highest priority to the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad,” the MEA emphasized.
As a part of Operation Sindhu, Indian officials are helping citizens move from high-risk zones in Iran to safer regions, before flying them home or moving them to neighboring countries like Armenia, Iraq, and Turkmenistan—where India has strong diplomatic ties.
Over 4,000 Indians in Iran—Mostly Students
There are currently over 4,000 Indians living in Iran, and nearly half of them are students. Just a day before Operation Sindhu was launched, the Indian government had issued an advisory urging all nationals to leave Tehran immediately.
India’s Evacuation Options
It’s not a simple situation. While India has good relations with Armenia, Iraq, and Turkmenistan, other neighbors like Pakistan, Turkey, and Azerbaijan aren’t quite as cooperative.
Still, India has a few routes up its sleeve:
- Overland via Armenia
- Through Persian Gulf waters
- By ship or flight via Saudi Arabia or Kuwait
Delhi is clearly tapping into every available diplomatic channel to make this mission work.
Need Help or Info? Here’s Where to Call
For any Indian nationals still in Iran—or for families trying to get updates—the Indian government has set up a 24×7 control room.
Contact Details:
- Toll-Free: 1800 118 797
- Phones: +91-11-23012113, +91-11-23014104, +91-11-23017905
- WhatsApp: +91-9968291988
- Email: situationroom@mea.gov.in
The Bigger Picture
With Operation Sindhu in full swing, India is doing what it does best during crises—bringing its people home safely. Whether it’s war zones, natural disasters, or political unrest, India has consistently pulled off large-scale evacuations.
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