IAF Keeps C-130J Super Hercules, C-17 Globemaster On Standby For Operation Ajay In Israel

To ensure the safe return of Indian citizens from Israel, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has placed its aircraft on standby, ready to respond to any requirements.

The IAF's transport aircraft fleet includes the C-17 and IL-76 heavy-lift transport planes, as well as the C-130J Super Hercules Special Operations aircraft, all of which have been utilized in the past for evacuation operations, as confirmed by IAF officials today (October 12).

Simultaneously, a charter flight is anticipated to reach Tel Aviv, the capital city of Israel, by this evening and is scheduled to return to India with approximately 230 passengers on board by Friday (October 13) morning, as announced by Arindam Bagchi, the Spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs.

"As announced by the External Affairs Minister yesterday, Operation Ajay has been initiated to facilitate the return of Indian citizens from Israel who wish to come back. The first charter flight is expected to arrive in Tel Aviv later tonight to collect Indian citizens and is likely to return to India tomorrow morning," stated the spokesperson during a media briefing today.

"We are closely monitoring the situation in Israel," Bagchi mentioned, also confirming that there have been no reports of Indian casualties thus far.

"We haven't received any reports of casualties at this point," he added.

Approximately 18,000 Indians are currently in Israel, and given the ongoing conflict, it is a matter of concern. Indians have been advised to adhere to advisories issued by our mission," Bagchi stated.

"Operation Ajay" was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to repatriate around 18,000 Indians who found themselves in Israel during the conflict between Hamas and Israel. The registration of Indian citizens commenced on Thursday (October 12).

The Indian embassy in Israel is providing assistance to Indian companies and has established a helpline for Indian citizens in need of support.

"A charter flight is expected to arrive in Tel Aviv later in the evening today. It is anticipated to have 230 passengers on board. While we have explored various options, the role of the IAF in the evacuation cannot be ruled out," the MEA spokesperson remarked concerning 'Operation Ajay.'

Yesterday, the Ministry of External Affairs established a 24-hour control room to address the escalating conflict. The control room will serve to monitor the situation and offer information and assistance.