Indian citizens residing in Israel voiced their concerns for their safety following Iran’s launch of ballistic missiles at the country on Tuesday. Many Indians shared videos of the Iranian missiles being intercepted and described their struggles as Israel promised to retaliate, raising fears of an impending regional conflict.
Nilabja Roychowdhary, a medical student at Bar-Ilan University in Tel Aviv and originally from Kolkata, told The Times of India that the situation is becoming “scarier” with each passing day.
“A few days ago, a bomb dropped barely 100 metres from a friend’s home. A CCTV camera captured the footage. I could have been in his house too,” added Roychowdhary explaining that the current tensions are much higher than that prevailed during Israel’s war against Hamas from October 7 last year.
“The situation is tough. We have not seen something as threatening as this ever,” said a caregiver from Telangana while sharing a video of missiles hitting buildings in the capital.
Authorities in Israel have ordered several citizens, including Indians, to evacuate to nearest bomb shelters. “We are in the safety room. No need to worry, but just before the siren blows, you need to go into the safety room. I am from Telangana, living in Tel Aviv,” an Indian can be heard saying in a video shared by news agency PTI.
Puspur Sarangadhar, another caregiver from Telangana told TOI that many were attracted by the opportunity to earn higher salaries in Israel but do not feel safer anymore. “I have to take care of the educational expenses of my two children,” he added.
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What did India say on Israel and Iran condition?
On Tuesday, the Indian embassy in Israel urged its citizens to stay vigilant and adhere to safety protocols issued by local authorities. The embassy advised, “Please exercise caution, avoid non-essential travel, and remain close to safety shelters. We are closely monitoring the situation and maintaining regular communication with Israeli authorities to ensure the safety of all our nationals.”
The Indian Embassy noted that approximately 18,000 Indian citizens are currently in Israel, including caregivers for elderly individuals, diamond traders, IT professionals, and students.
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