In a swift and decisive move, India has initiated ‘Operation Ajay’ with the primary objective of facilitating the safe return of its citizens from the conflict-ridden nation of Israel.
The Ministry of External Affairs announced this pivotal operation with a clear message of commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Indian nationals abroad. It underscores the gravity of the situation in Israel, which is currently grappling with the Israel-Hamas war, now in its fifth day.
External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, took to the social media platform X to express the launch of ‘Operation Ajay.’ He conveyed the government’s determination to expedite the repatriation process by arranging special charter flights and making other essential arrangements.
The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv is actively coordinating the operation and has taken the initiative to email the first group of registered Indian citizens, paving the way for their departure on a dedicated flight. Subsequent notifications will be dispatched to other registered individuals for forthcoming flights, ensuring an organized and efficient repatriation process.
The Ministry of External Affairs has established a round-the-clock control room to closely monitor the situation in Israel, providing vital information and assistance. Furthermore, the Indian embassy in Tel Aviv has disseminated helpline numbers to facilitate communication and support for Indian nationals during this critical period.
The Israel-Hamas war has been characterized by relentless violence, resulting in the tragic loss of more than 2,200 lives. Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, along with a prominent opposition leader, has formed an emergency war-time cabinet to oversee the ongoing conflict against Hamas. The Israeli military’s extensive bombardment in Gaza has left entire city blocks reduced to rubble, concealing the extent of human suffering beneath the debris. Simultaneously, Gaza-based militants persist in launching rocket attacks into Israel, perpetuating the cycle of violence.
India has unequivocally extended its support to Israel in its battle against Hamas, a group that controls the Gaza Strip. Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored this support during a phone conversation with his Israeli counterpart, Benjamin Netanyahu, discussing the prevailing conditions in Israel. In a social media post on platform X, Modi expressed his gratitude for Netanyahu’s update and affirmed India’s strong stance against all forms of terrorism.
As ‘Operation Ajay’ unfolds, it is poised to become a defining chapter in the evolving narrative of India’s role in international diplomacy and crisis management. The endeavor reflects India’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its citizens and contributing to global peace and stability during times of adversity.