In a remarkable humanitarian effort, India has initiated ‘Operation Ajay’ to repatriate its citizens from Israel, a nation embroiled in a conflict with Hamas. On a heartwarming Friday, the inaugural flight transported 212 Indian nationals back to the safety of Delhi. Upon their arrival, Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar extended a warm welcome to the returning citizens, lauding the tireless efforts of Prime Minister Modi and External Affairs Minister Jaishankar in ensuring the well-being of Indians in Israel. He also engaged with the students among the returning passengers.
The Indians who had been reunited with their homeland expressed their deep gratitude towards the Indian government and fervently wished for peace to return to the beleaguered region. They recounted the hardships they had endured in Israel due to the ongoing conflict. India’s Ambassador to Israel, Sanjeev Singla, affirmed that the embassy had been working relentlessly to assist Indian nationals who wished to return. He eagerly announced that another flight would depart on Saturday, carrying more passengers back home. He earnestly encouraged the Indian community in Israel to remain composed and diligently adhere to the local safety advisories.
Arindam Bagchi, the spokesperson for the External Affairs Ministry, disclosed that ‘Operation Ajay’ had been officially launched by Jaishankar on Thursday. He also shared the reassuring news that, thus far, there had been no reported Indian casualties in the conflict. With approximately 18,000 Indians residing in Israel, the ministry remains vigilant, closely monitoring the situation and urging Indian nationals to heed the advisories issued by the embassy. For the convenience of those in need, the embassy has established a dedicated helpline.
This monumental operation, christened ‘Operation Ajay,’ was spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the primary aim of safely repatriating the estimated 18,000 Indians in Israel. The registration process for Indian citizens kicked off on Thursday, while the Indian embassy in Israel has been actively extending support to Indian companies and providing a dedicated helpline for Indian nationals seeking assistance.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Ministry of External Affairs established a 24-hour control room to continuously monitor the escalating conflict, disseminate critical information, and provide immediate assistance. Earlier, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar chaired a pivotal meeting, meticulously reviewing the preparations for the successful execution of ‘Operation Ajay.’ This resolute and empathetic endeavor is a testament to India’s unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens, even in the face of adversity.
