India has launched Operation Ajay to repatriate its citizens from Israel amidst the ongoing conflict with the Hamas group in Gaza. With an estimated 18,000 Indians in Israel, the government is taking measures to ensure their safety and well-being. Special charter flights and other arrangements are being made to facilitate their return.
Foreign Minister S Jaishankar expressed the government’s commitment to the safety of its nationals abroad in a post on X. The first group of registered Indian citizens has been notified and will be evacuated on the first special flight scheduled for tomorrow, according to the Indian embassy in Israel. The embassy will continue to communicate with other registered individuals for subsequent flights.
In response to the escalating conflict, Israel has established an emergency government to lead the war against Hamas. The militant group’s recent attacks on Israeli soil, targeting civilians in their homes and on the streets, have prompted a significant number of casualties. Israel has retaliated with a heavy bombardment of the Gaza Strip, where Hamas is in control.
The situation has further intensified with Hamas reportedly taking hostages, including citizens from various countries such as Thailand, Mexico, the United States, and Germany. Israel has also faced threats from Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group backed by Iran, on its northern border with Lebanon. Reports indicate that missiles were fired from Lebanon towards Israel, triggering Israeli military action against Hezbollah.
Furthermore, Israel has engaged in exchanges of fire with militants in Syria after munitions were fired towards the Golan Heights. These developments have raised concerns about the possibility of a multi-front war for Israel.
The article concludes by mentioning that the information provided was sourced from AFP.