A total of 380 Indian nationals — 219 from Iran and 161 from Israel — arrived safely in New Delhi on Tuesday under Operation Sindhu, the Government of India’s strategic evacuation mission amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), 292 Indians were flown in from Mashhad, Iran, early Tuesday morning, bringing the total number of evacuees from Iran to 2,295. The Israel leg of Operation Sindhu also marked a successful milestone, with 161 citizens repatriated via Jordan on a flight that landed at 8:20 a.m.

Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita personally welcomed the returning citizens at the airport. “We are closely monitoring the situation and are committed to providing all possible assistance to our citizens in Iran and Israel,” he said.

Many evacuees shared harrowing accounts of the conflict. One Indian who returned from Haifa, Israel, described hiding behind a bush during attacks. “I panicked. I couldn’t sleep. I thank the MEA for bringing us back safely.”

Others expressed gratitude for the government’s efficient response. “The transition was smooth. The Indian Embassy ensured we were safe and cared for,” said an evacuee from Iran.

Another highlighted the diplomatic efforts, saying, “The Mashhad Airport opened only for Indian nationals. That speaks volumes about India’s stance and diplomacy.”

Operation Sindhu, launched in response to conflict in West Asia, underscores India’s commitment to protect its citizens abroad, coordinating closely with local governments and using Air Force and chartered flights for evacuation.