Operation Ajay: In a swift response to the escalating situation in the Middle East, the Indian government has launched ‘Operation Ajay’ to ensure the safe return of its nationals from Israel. The initiative comes amid mounting speculations of Israel’s impending invasion of Gaza.
The Ministry of External Affairs, via its official Twitter handle, announced, “Launching #OperationAjay to facilitate the return from Israel of our citizens who wish to return. Special charter flights and other arrangements are being put in place. Fully committed to the safety and well-being of our nationals abroad.”
Background:
Tensions have been brewing in the region, with reports suggesting that Israel is gearing up for a significant military operation in Gaza. The exact reasons for the speculated invasion remain unclear, but the potential for large-scale conflict has put foreign nationals residing in Israel in a precarious position.
Evacuation Plan:
In a massive evacuation effort, the Indian government is mobilizing special charter flights to expedite the return of its citizens. These charter services are expected to fly between major Israeli cities and various Indian destinations, focusing first on densely populated areas and zones nearest to the conflict regions.
The Indian embassy in Tel Aviv has set up 24/7 helplines to aid in the coordination of the evacuation process and to offer guidance to Indian citizens requiring assistance. It is yet unclear how many Indians currently reside in Israel or the number that might opt for evacuation, but it’s believed that a significant portion might choose to stay back, given their professional or personal commitments.
International Response:
The international community is observing the situation with heightened concern. Several nations have issued travel advisories, and others, like India, have begun putting evacuation plans in motion. Diplomatic channels are working overtime to de-escalate the situation, with various global leaders urging restraint and peaceful resolution.
India’s Stance:
India, which shares a strong strategic partnership with Israel, has always emphasized the importance of peace and dialogue in the region. While the evacuation move is seen as a necessary measure to protect its citizens, New Delhi has not made any official statements regarding the speculated invasion or the ongoing tensions.
As ‘Operation Ajay’ gets underway, the primary concern remains the safety and well-being of Indian nationals in Israel. The coming days will be crucial in understanding how the situation unfolds and the broader geopolitical implications it might have.
Israel’s Consul General in Mumbai, Kobbi Shoshani, stated that while over 20,000 Indians reside in Israel, he has no knowledge of any Indian nationals being harmed or killed in the current conflict between Israeli forces and Hamas militants.
