(Image source from: Kashmirobserver.net)
India has initiated the evacuation of its citizens from Iran due to the rising tensions between Tehran and Israel. The initial group of 110 Indian nationals has successfully made their way into Armenia and is scheduled to depart for Delhi tomorrow. In a new advisory, the Indian government has encouraged its citizens residing in Tehran to leave and connect with the Embassy. To assist in this effort, the Embassy of India in Tehran has established an emergency contact line: +989010144557; +989128109115; +989128109109. Today marks the fifth day of conflict as Iran has launched a series of missile and drone strikes on Israel, escalating concerns about a prolonged conflict that may spread throughout the Middle East. The hostilities between Iran and Israel intensified following Tel Aviv's initiation of 'Operation Rising Lion' aimed at Iran's nuclear facilities last week, prompting Tehran to respond with missile and drone attacks on Israeli locations, resulting in over 20 fatalities and numerous injuries.
Local media reports indicate that Iranian authorities have uncovered a drone manufacturing facility linked to the Israeli Intelligence Agency, Mossad, within Tehran. Reportedly, two individuals alleged to be associated with Mossad have been apprehended during separate operations in Tehran and Alborz provinces. Authorities confiscated over 200 kilograms of explosives, as well as components intended for 23 drones, launch apparatus, and various technical equipment from the suspects. Iran's Foreign Minister and lead nuclear negotiator, Abbas Araghchi, remarked during discussions with his French, British, and German counterparts that Israel's military actions against Iran "undermine" diplomatic efforts. He stated, "Israel's aggression towards Iran amidst nuclear negotiations with the United States poses a significant challenge to diplomatic progress."
As the conflict escalates, striking footage surfaced online on Monday, depicting a missile hitting the Iranian State TV studio’s compound. Anchor Sahar Imami was forced to evacuate the studio midway through her broadcast as vibrations from the missile impact shook the entire set. Meanwhile, the United States is bolstering its military presence in the Middle East to strengthen its "defensive posture" amid the intensification of hostilities between Iran and Israel. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that he has directed the deployment of additional defensive capabilities to the region, although he refrained from detailing the specific military assets involved. In a related development, Iran has signaled its intention to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, which aims to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons while allowing member states to pursue peaceful nuclear energy. Concurrently, US President Donald Trump expressed his belief that Iran is inclined to negotiate a deal with the US regarding its nuclear program in light of the ongoing Israeli attacks.
Trump has issued a warning for all Iranians to "evacuate Tehran," citing what he characterized as the country's refusal to agree to an accord aimed at limiting the advancement of nuclear weaponry. He expressed, "Iran should have accepted the 'deal' I urged them to sign. It's unfortunate and a tragedy for human lives. To put it plainly, IRAN MUST NOT POSSESS A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I've stated this repeatedly! Everyone should evacuate Tehran immediately!" Trump shared this on his platform, Truth Social. Furthermore, the White House announced on Monday that the US President will depart from the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Canada a day earlier due to the developments in the Middle East. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt mentioned, "President Trump had a very productive day at the G7, even finalizing a significant trade agreement with the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. A lot was achieved, but due to the current events in the Middle East, President Trump will be leaving tonight following a dinner with other world leaders."
In response to the escalating conflict involving Iran, the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv established a 24-hour emergency helpline on Saturday and advised Indian citizens to remain alert. The embassy stated, "We are actively monitoring the situation as it unfolds, particularly concerning the safety of Indian nationals. For any emergencies, please reach out to our helpline available around the clock: Telephone +972 54-7520711 +972 54-3278392 Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.," as posted on X by the Indian embassy on Saturday. Multiple nations, including China, Turkey, and the UK, have called on both Iran and Israel to take immediate action to de-escalate tensions. Additionally, the nuclear talks that were scheduled to occur between Tehran and Washington on Sunday have been canceled.
