Operation Ajay: Flight lands with Indians from Israel

A flight carrying the first batch of 212 Indians, who were stranded in Israel amid the ongoing war, landed in New Delhi under 'Operation Ajay' on Friday morning.

Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar was present at the airport to welcome them.

With folded hands, Chandrasekhar greeted the returning Indians. He then interacted with the students.

The operation, which was launched by Indian Prime Minster Narendra Modi, reflects the government's commitment towards the safety of Indian nationals living abroad.

"Our government will never leave any Indian behind. Our government, our Prime Minister is determined to protect them and bring them back home safely. We are grateful to EAM Dr S Jaishankar, the team at the External Affairs Ministry, the flight crew of this Air India flight for making this possible, for bringing our children back home safely and soundly and back home to their loved ones," Chandrasekhar said.

An Indian national who returned from Israel told ANI, "This is the first time that we are facing this situation over there. We are very thankful to the Indian government, especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing us back. We are hoping for peace as soon as possible so that we can go back to work as earliest as possible..."

On the occasion, Indian Ambassador to Israel, Sanjeev Singla said that the Indian Embassy in Israel is working to ensure the well-being of Indian nationals in war-torn Israel and informed that under "Operation Ajay" the embassy will help Indians who want to return to India.

Earlier on Thursday, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "We haven't heard of any casualty so far," he said." Around 18,000 Indians are in Israel. There is conflict going on and it is a matter of concern. Indians advised to follow advisories issued by our mission."

The Indian embassy in Israel is providing assistance to Indian companies and has set up a helpline for Indian citizens in need of assistance.

The MEA has also set up a 24-hour control room in view of the escalating conflict. The control room will help monitor the situation and provide information and assistance.

Earlier, the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar chaired a meeting to review preparations for "Operation Ajay".

(ANI)