What happened?
Amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, India has extended its ongoing Operation Sindhu mission to include the evacuation of Nepalese and Sri Lankan citizens from Iran, following formal requests from their respective governments. The Indian Embassy in Tehran announced on Saturday, June 21, 2025, that it would provide assistance to Nepalese and Sri Lankan nationals who wish to be evacuated. India had launched Operation Sindhu to safeguard its own nationals in Iran and has so far evacuated 517 Indian citizens. Iran has made a rare exception, allowing India to operate three special evacuation flights from Mashhad to New Delhi, despite its airspace being closed to most international airlines. These flights were scheduled for Friday night and Saturday to bring back approximately 1,000 Indian students. Earlier in the week, India also facilitated the return of 110 students from Urmia University, who were moved across the land border to Yerevan, Armenia, and then flown to New Delhi. Operation Sindhu has also been extended to Indian nationals in Israel, with plans for evacuation via land borders and air transport.
Why it matters to India
This development highlights India’s growing role as a regional security provider and its commitment to assisting its neighbours in times of crisis, aligning with its “Neighbourhood First” policy. The successful evacuation of its own citizens, as well as those from Nepal and Sri Lanka, reinforces India’s diplomatic capabilities and operational efficiency in complex geopolitical environments. Iran’s rare concession to allow Indian evacuation flights underscores the strong bilateral relations between the two countries. Extending Operation Sindhu to Israel further demonstrates India’s dedication to the safety of its diaspora in conflict zones. These actions collectively enhance India’s global standing and its ability to respond effectively to international crises, while also strengthening its strategic partnerships in the region.