A charter flight under Operation Ajay successfully landed at Delhi airport, bringing back 212 Indian nationals from Israel. This operation, designed to facilitate the return of Indian citizens from Israel amidst ongoing conflicts, received a warm welcome from Union Minister Rajeev Chandrashekar, who was present at the airport to receive the passengers.
Take a look:
#WATCH | First flight carrying 212 Indian nationals from Israel, lands at Delhi airport; received by Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar pic.twitter.com/uB71qIBmJy
— ANI (@ANI) October 13, 2023
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Operation Ajay was prompted in response to a series of multi-pronged attacks by Hamas on Israel, with Tel Aviv facing increasing threats. These attacks had escalated into a violent conflict, leading to substantial casualties on both sides, including over 2,500 fatalities.
The 211 passengers on this flight, were selected on a “first come first serve” basis, following a registration drive initiated by the Indian embassy in Israel. Notably, the Indian government bore the expenses for their return journey.
Air India had ceased its flights since the commencement of the conflict on October 7, and its commercial operations remained suspended. As a result, Operation Ajay aimed to assist Indian nationals who were unable to return due to flight restrictions.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, expressing his commitment to the safety and well-being of Indian nationals abroad, officially announced Operation Ajay. The operation was met with a positive response from the Indian community in Israel, leading to a long queue of people, including students, eager to board the special charter flight departing from Tel Aviv.
Launching #OperationAjay to facilitate the return from Israel of our citizens who wish to return.
Special charter flights and other arrangements being put in place.
Fully committed to the safety and well-being of our nationals abroad.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 11, 2023
#OperationAjay gets underway.
212 citizens onboard the flight are enroute New Delhi. pic.twitter.com/fGSAYiXbBA
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 12, 2023
This operation marks a crucial step in ensuring the safe return of Indian citizens from a conflict zone. The Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv served as the departure point for these charter flights, facilitating the reconnection of Indian nationals with their home country. Another charter flight is scheduled to continue this operation, giving more individuals the opportunity to return to India.
An Indian National shared his experience of being stuck in the warzone. He underscored that it was the first time they had gone through something this horrible. Moreover, he expressed gratitude towards the Indian government for bringing them back.
Take a look:
#WATCH | Delhi: An Indian national who returned from Israel says, “This is the first time that we are facing this situation over there. We are very thankful to the Indian government, especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing us back. We are hoping for peace as soon as… https://t.co/XPUDlnv3Lf pic.twitter.com/Fu10lZ7DHc
— ANI (@ANI) October 13, 2023
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