India has initiated Operation Ajay to assist its citizens in returning from Israel, amid the ongoing conflict with the Hamas group in Gaza. This operation is in response to the significant Indian population of 18,000 residing in Israel. Foreign Minister S Jaishankar has affirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of these nationals abroad.
To facilitate this return, special charter flights and logistical arrangements are being organized. The first group of registered Indian citizens has already been notified, and they are scheduled to board the initial special flight bound for India the following day, according to the Indian embassy in Israel.
The conflict in the region has escalated significantly, prompting Israel to establish an emergency government to address the situation and combat Hamas. This decision was prompted by a devastating attack by Hamas fighters, resulting in civilian casualties on Israeli soil. The violence has claimed thousands of lives over the past five days, with Israel responding with a massive bombardment of the Gaza Strip, which is under Hamas rule. Israel has also assembled its military forces near the besieged Palestinian enclave, indicating the possibility of a ground invasion.
Additionally, there is a concerning development where Hamas has taken hostages, including individuals from various nationalities, such as Thais, Mexicans, Americans, and Germans, although the exact number remains unknown.
Furthermore, Israel faced the prospect of a multi-front war, as it engaged in exchanges of fire with the Iran-backed Shiite militant group Hezbollah along its northern border with Lebanon. Hezbollah launched missiles at Israel, and in response, the Israeli military targeted one of the group’s military observation posts in southern Lebanon.
Additionally, Israel found itself in a conflict with militants in Syria, which occurred after munitions were fired toward the Golan Heights from the Syrian side. The situation remains complex and volatile in the region.
