NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has kept its aircraft on standby, in case there is a requirement, to bring back Indian citizens from Israel amidst the war with Hamas, Indian Air Force officials said on Thursday.
According to the officials, IAF transport aircraft fleet includes the C-17 and IL-76 heavy-lift transport planes along with the C-130J Super Hercules Special Operations aircraft which have been used in the past for such evacuation operations.
‘Operation Ajay’ was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bring back around 18,000 Indians in Israel amidst the war between Hamas and Israel. Registration of Indians began on Thursday. The Indian embassy in Israel is providing assistance to Indian companies and has set up a helpline for Indian citizens in need of assistance.
“A charter flight will reach Tel Aviv today later in the evening. It is expected to get 230 passengers onboard. We have all options, but the role of IAF (in evacuation) can’t be ruled out”, an MEA spokesperson said on ‘Operation Ajay.’
Yesterday, the MEA had set up a 24-hour control room in view of the escalating conflict. The control room will help monitor the situation and provide information and assistance. Earlier today, the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar chaired a meeting to review preparations for ‘Operation Ajay’. (ANI)