5-945-indians-evacuated-from-middle-east-in-last-3-yrs

The Indian government evacuated 5,945 Indians from the Middle East during the last 3 years, for their safety and security. These Indian nationals were brought back home safely from Israel, Iran, Syria, and Iraq. The data was shared by the Central government in the Parliament on Friday.

 

These evacuation operations include 'Operation Ajay' in Israel in 2023 and 'Operation Sindhu' in Iran and Israel in 2025, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar informed in a written response to a query in Lok Sabha.  

 

"Government also undertook a special humanitarian airlift of mortal remains of 45 deceased Indian nationals, who lost their lives in a tragic fire incident in Kuwait in 2024, which included three citizens of Uttar Pradesh," he said.

 

The Union minister said the government "closely monitors" any developing adverse situations worldwide, including the Middle Eastern region. The safety, security, and well-being of all Indian nationals, irrespective of their states, is the primary priority of the Indian government, it said.

 

"Keeping in view the safety and security of Indian nationals, the Government of India evacuated 5,945 Indian nationals from Israel, Iran, Syria and Iraq in the Middle East during the last three years, including under 'Operation Ajay' in Israel in 2023 and 'Operation Sindhu' in Iran and Israel in 2025. A total of 1,474 evacuated Indian nationals belonged to Uttar Pradesh," Jaishankar said.

 

Keeping in mind the situation, the Indian government issues travel advisories as required, urging Indian nationals to avoid non-essential travel, comply with local safety guidelines, and stay in contact with Indian missions through designated helplines and communication channels.

 

"Wherever necessary, the government launches evacuation operations with a whole-of-government approach to safely evacuate stranded Indian nationals," he said.

 

The government provides logistical support, including safe shelter, meals, local and cross-border movement, and transportation by arranging special vehicles and evacuation flights "on a gratis basis".

 

"Presently, there is no information on any imminent threat to the safety and security of Indian nationals or any situation requiring evacuation of Indian nationals from the Middle Eastern region," the EAM added.