Operation Ajay: First batch of Indian nationals in Israel to depart on Thursday with no airfare
New Delhi, October 12: Amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas, the first flight to bring back stranded Indians will depart from Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv tonight. This evacuation effort, known as Operation Ajay, is particularly focused on Indian students studying in Israeli institutions.
Indian students who have registered with the Indian embassy received an email notification stating that the Ministry of External Affairs would organize a chartered flight from Tel Aviv to Delhi. The flight is scheduled to depart from Ben Gurion airport at 9 PM Israel time, and India is two-and-a-half hours ahead of Israel.
The Embassy has been working constantly to help our fellow citizens in Israel through a 24-hour helpline. Please remain calm & vigilant & follow the security advisories.
24*7 Emergency Helpline/Contact:
Tel 972-35226748
Tel 972-543278392
Email: cons1.telaviv@mea.gov.in pic.twitter.com/Y7HehsaJOf — India in Israel (@indemtel) October 11, 2023
The email instructs Indian students to complete a Google form to confirm their participation. It specifies that each passenger is allowed one checked-in luggage weighing no more than 23 kg and one cabin luggage. As the conflict in the Gaza region intensifies, with a rising death toll nearing 4,000, New Delhi initiated Operation Ajay to repatriate Indian citizens.
External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar announced the launch of Operation Ajay, emphasizing the commitment to the safety and well-being of Indian nationals abroad. The operation involves special charter flights and additional arrangements. The Indian Embassy in Israel has established round-the-clock helplines to assist those stranded during the war. It has urged people to remain calm and follow security advisories issued periodically.Assuring our students of all assistance. First Secretary Vishal met some of our students at Tel Aviv University (TAU) today to allay their concerns. pic.twitter.com/FZ9REvcEEl — India in Israel (@indemtel) October 11, 2023
The embassy has already informed the first group of Indians to return home, and those who have registered for flights will be contacted soon. Indian embassy representatives have also met with Indian students to address their concerns about the situation in the region.
Sanjeev Singla, India's Ambassador to Israel, assured that the embassy is working tirelessly for the safety and welfare of Indian citizens. He urged everyone to remain calm and vigilant while following local security guidelines.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in approximately 4,000 casualties, with Hamas launching a surprise attack on Israel and prompting a brutal retaliation. In response, Air India temporarily suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv until October 14.
- With inputs from agencies
