Sri Lanka thanks India for evacuating its citizens from Iran amid rising tensions with Israel. Operation Sindhu continues as hundreds of Indian and foreign nationals return home safely.
In the face of mounting hostility between Iran and Israel, India has emerged not only as a protector of its people but as a beacon of humanitarian coordination across South Asia. On Saturday, Sri Lanka publicly expressed deep appreciation for India’s assistance in evacuating its citizens from Iran, a country now gripped by heightened conflict and missile exchanges with Israel.
Sri Lanka Extends Heartfelt Thanks to India
A representative for Sri Lanka’s Foreign Ministry praised India’s prompt and thoughtful action in a post on the ‘X’ platform. According to the source, Sri Lanka is extremely appreciative of the Indian government’s quick assistance in evacuating its residents from Iran along with Indians. More than just relief, the sentiment emphasized the depth of the decades-long mutual friendship.
The Foreign Ministry also emphasized that this effort speaks volumes about the enduring partnership between the two nations—a bond forged through history, diplomacy, and mutual respect.
A Humanitarian Gesture Beyond Borders
An earlier statement from the Indian Embassy in Tehran was significant. In response to their governments’ requests, the embassy included the citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka in its evacuation effort. According to the news release, “The Indian Embassy in Iran will also cover the citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka in the evacuation efforts at the request of the governments of those countries.”
India’s proactive decision to expand its mission highlights its growing role as a regional stabilizer and compassionate responder in times of crisis.
Operation Sindhu: A Lifeline from Conflict
In response to escalating military tensions in West Asia, the Indian government activated Operation Sindhu—an urgent mission to rescue stranded citizens from the conflict zone. With Iran and Israel trading missile strikes and the possibility of broader warfare looming, India moved swiftly.
Notably, Iran acknowledged the humanitarian need and diplomatic importance of India’s request and allowed the operation by reopening its previously blocked airspace. In a rare statement during a tense geopolitical period, Iranian diplomat Javad Hosseini confirmed that Iranians see Indians as their people.”
Diplomatic Cooperation Amid Crisis
Three flights were arranged under Operation Sindhu to repatriate Indian nationals. The first batches began arriving in Delhi late Friday and early Saturday. Meanwhile, more flights brought back Sri Lankan and Nepalese citizens safely. Among those evacuated were Indian students, pilgrims, and devotees who had found themselves stranded in the shadow of a brewing war.
These evacuations have now surpassed 827 Indian nationals, according to Randhir Jaiswal, the official spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs. He shared updates via social media, noting the smooth and safe return of 310 students in the latest flight from Tehran to Delhi.
Homecoming: Relief, Gratitude, and Safe Return
The human stories behind Operation Sindhu are ones of profound relief and national pride. Students arriving at Delhi’s airport expressed heartfelt thanks to the Indian government. One student, Almas Rizvi, remarked that the embassy ensured timely accommodation, meals, and care throughout the evacuation. “We were looked after with dignity,” he said, adding that their journey back home was marked with empathy and efficiency.
290 students returned earlier on June 20, and 110 more arrived in India via Armenia and Doha on June 19. The Ministry of External Affairs’ and the Indian Embassy’s concerted efforts in Tehran demonstrate India’s growing dedication to regional solidarity and global citizenship.
As tensions persist in the Middle East, Operation Sindhu continues—quietly, efficiently, and with a steady heartbeat of compassion and resolve.
