Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jun 22: As tensions in the Middle East intensify following U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, India continues its large-scale evacuation of nationals stranded in Iran under Operation Sindhu. A fresh batch of 311 Indian citizens arrived safely in New Delhi on Saturday evening via a special flight from Mashhad.

The update was shared by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, who confirmed that 1,428 Indian nationals have now been brought back from the war-affected region.

“Operation Sindhu continues. 311 Indian nationals arrived in New Delhi on a special flight from Mashhad at 16:30 hrs on 22nd June,” he posted on X.

A significant number of the evacuees were Indian students, with over 200 from Jammu & Kashmir. The J&K Students Association expressed relief and gratitude for the government’s timely intervention.

“The Mahan Air flight (W50071A) from Mashhad, Iran, carrying over 280 Indian students, including 200+ from Kashmir, has safely landed in Delhi. A moment of immense relief and joy for families who waited with anxious hearts,” the association said in a statement on X.

They also thanked the MEA and all officials involved for their “swift response and tireless coordination” in ensuring the students’ safe return.

In a broader humanitarian effort, the Government of India has extended its evacuation support to nationals of Sri Lanka and Nepal, following requests from their respective governments. The Indian Embassy in Tehran confirmed on Saturday that both Sri Lankan and Nepalese citizens will be airlifted by Indian authorities from the conflict zone.

Operation Sindhu continues to play a critical role in safely bringing home Indian citizens amid growing instability in the region following joint Israeli and U.S. military actions in Iran.