The first evacuation flight under India’s Operation Sindhu, carrying 110 Indian nationals—mostly students—landed safely in New Delhi early on June 19, 2025, after departing from Yerevan, Armenia. This mission was launched in response to the intensifying military conflict between Iran and Israel, which has endangered thousands of Indian citizens residing in Iran.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, expressed gratitude to the governments of Iran, Armenia, and Turkmenistan for their crucial assistance in facilitating the evacuation.
While the initial group has returned safely, the government continues efforts to evacuate the remaining Indians stranded in high-risk areas, with additional flights planned in the coming days.
Operation Sindhu: Coordinated Evacuation Amid Rising Tensions
Operation Sindhu was swiftly activated following a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian military and nuclear facilities, and Iran’s retaliatory missile attacks that have severely affected civilian areas, including Tehran. The Indian government estimated over 4,000 Indian nationals, including approximately 2,000 students, are currently in Iran, many in vulnerable regions.
The 110 evacuees, predominantly students from Jammu and Kashmir pursuing medical and other studies, were transported overland from northern Iran to Yerevan, Armenia, under the guidance of Indian diplomatic missions. From Yerevan, they boarded a special IndiGo flight (6E 9487) to Delhi.
Upon arrival, Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh personally welcomed the evacuees, assuring families that the government is committed to bringing all citizens home safely. Evacuees recounted harrowing experiences, with some witnessing missile strikes near their residences and sharing stories of anxiety and uncertainty. Families expressed relief but also concern for those still trapped, highlighting the ongoing urgency of the situation.
Background: Rising Conflict and India’s Proactive Measures
The current crisis stems from escalating hostilities between Iran and Israel, which began with Israeli airstrikes on June 13, 2025, targeting Iranian military installations and nuclear sites. Iran’s counterstrikes have included missile attacks on civilian infrastructure in Tehran and northern cities, causing injuries and damage to residential areas, including student hostels.
Reports confirmed that some Indian students were injured in a missile strike on a medical dormitory in Tehran, prompting immediate action by the Indian Embassy. India has since activated 24×7 helplines, advised nationals to avoid high-risk zones, and coordinated with Iranian, Armenian, and Turkmen authorities to facilitate safe passage.
The government’s diplomatic efforts have been praised by student associations and families, though many Indians remain in precarious conditions awaiting evacuation. The operation reflects India’s commitment to protecting its diaspora amid volatile geopolitical circumstances.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Operation Sindhu highlights the critical role of diplomacy, empathy, and international cooperation in safeguarding civilians caught in the crossfire of conflict. The support extended by Iran, Armenia, and Turkmenistan underscores how humanitarian concerns can transcend political tensions.
The Logical Indian reaffirms its commitment to peace, dialogue, and coexistence, urging all nations to prioritise the protection of innocent lives during times of war.
As India continues its evacuation efforts, this situation prompts a vital question for our readers: How can the global community strengthen collaborative mechanisms to ensure the safety and dignity of foreign nationals in conflict zones?
