India Launches Operation Ajay to Evacuate Citizens from Israel

• 12 Oct 2023

As ongoing hostilities between Israeli forces and Hamas militants persist in Israel, India has initiated "Operation Ajay" to facilitate the return of its citizens from the conflict-ridden region.

Key Points

• Evacuation Effort: India launched "Operation Ajay" to ensure the safe return of its citizens from Israel, where violence continues to escalate due to the ongoing conflict.
• Special Charter Flights: External Affairs Minister announced the operation and revealed that special charter flights and other arrangements are being organized for the evacuation.
• Commitment to Safety: External Affairs Minister expressed India's unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of its nationals abroad, underlining the priority placed on ensuring the security of Indian citizens in the region.
• Round-the-Clock Control Room: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) established a round-the-clock control room in Delhi to closely monitor the situation and provide information and assistance to Indians in need.
• Emergency Helplines: MEA also set up separate emergency helplines in Tel Aviv and Ramallah, areas affected by the conflict.
• Indian Citizens in Israel: Reportedly, approximately 18,000 Indians are currently residing in Israel.
• Casualties: The Israeli military reported more than 1,200 casualties, including 155 soldiers, since the incursion on Saturday. In Gaza, the health ministry recorded over 1,050 deaths and more than 5,100 injuries.
• The United Nations Palestinian refugee agency noted that 250,000 people have been displaced in Gaza.