New Delhi: Operation Sindhu, India’s swift and effective evacuation mission from conflict-ridden Iran, has successfully brought home 2,858 Indian citizens. The latest flight, which landed in New Delhi on Wednesday, carried 282 Indians from the war-torn Mashhad.
“282 Indian nationals were evacuated from Iran on a special flight that arrived in New Delhi from Mashhad at 00:01 hrs on 25th June. With this, 2858 Indian nationals have been brought home from Iran,” the Ministry of External Affairs stated in a post on X.
282 Indian nationals were evacuated from Iran on a special flight that arrived in New Delhi from Mashhad at 00:01 hrs on 25th June.
With this, 2858 Indian nationals have been brought home from Iran. pic.twitter.com/Mgl84eBxQW
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) June 24, 2025
The war between Iran and Israel, culminating in a US-brokered ceasefire, created a volatile and unpredictable environment. The situation, initially characterised by unpredictability and escalating violence, had prompted urgent action to ensure the safety of Indian nationals.
The evacuees, upon arrival in Delhi, expressed profound relief and gratitude towards the Indian government and the Indian embassy in Iran for the safe and efficient evacuation process. Several individuals shared their experiences, describing how the embassy’s assistance and logistical arrangements had greatly alleviated their anxieties.
They praised the embassy staff and ground support teams, highlighting their dedication and unwavering support throughout the evacuation process. One evacuee remarked on the improved situation in the region, noting the unpredictability of the situation just days prior, emphasising the timing of the operation’s success.
“The condition is better now. Two to four days ago, the situation was completely unpredictable. The Indian Embassy made suitable arrangements for us. We did not face any trouble,” he said.
The Indian Embassy’s crucial role in facilitating the evacuations received widespread praise. The evacuees consistently expressed gratitude for the Embassy’s proactive support, ensuring their safety and smooth passage home.
“I am feeling good. The situation there is normal. The Indian Embassy has supported us very much. The ground staff also worked hard. I am thankful to them,” another evacuee, Syed Adil Mansoor, shared his experience with news agency ANI.
The evacuation effort extended beyond Indian nationals. A previous flight had also brought back three Sri Lankan and two Nepalese citizens.
This aspect of the mission was highlighted by Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, who welcomed earlier returnees and affirmed the Indian government’s commitment to assisting those in need, both within India and in neighbouring countries. Mr. Margherita also stated that a total of 3180 Indian nationals had been brought back from Iran and Israel, along with citizens from neighbouring Nepal and Sri Lanka.
“Update: Operation Sindhu MoS Pabitra Margherita warmly received 281 Indian, 3 Sri Lankan & 2 Nepalese nationals evacuated from Iran. They arrived in New Delhi on a special flight from Mashhad at 1500 hrs on 24 June. 2576 Indian nationals have now been brought home from Iran as part of Operation Sindhu,” the MEA stated in a post on X.
“This is the 11th batch that we are bringing from Iran. The total number of evacuees from Iran stands at 2576. By three flights from Israel, we brought 594 Indian nationals back safely to their homes along with the people from our neighbouring countries, Nepal and Sri Lanka. We are extending support to our international neighbouring friends. So, the total is 3180 Indian nationals brought back safely to India under Operation Sindhu,” he stated.
