The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has recently issued an urgent safety advisory for all Indian nationals, including students, residing in Israel amid the growing tensions in the region. This advisory comes in response to escalating conflict between Israel and Lebanon, along with broader regional instability, particularly after recent events that have heightened the risk of violence.
In the advisory, the embassy has urged Indian citizens to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant. They have advised against unnecessary travel within the country and emphasized the importance of staying close to safety shelters. These shelters, often equipped for emergencies, are crucial in the event of sudden escalations, which have been increasingly likely given the current situation.
The advisory highlights that the embassy is closely monitoring the evolving situation and is in regular contact with Israeli authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian nationals. The embassy has also set up two 24/7 emergency helpline numbers for immediate assistance: +972-547520711 and +972-543278392. These lines are open for any Indian national needing help or advice during this turbulent period.
Furthermore, the embassy has urged all Indian nationals who have not yet registered with them to do so as a matter of priority. Registration is vital for the embassy to keep track of its citizens and provide timely support if needed. This advisory follows Air India's decision to suspend all flights to and from Tel Aviv until at least August 8, 2024, due to the escalating violence. This suspension underscores the severity of the situation and the potential risks involved in travelling to or from the region.
The current tensions stem from a series of recent events, including a significant increase in cross-border attacks between Israel and Lebanon and a broader escalation of conflict in the Middle East. These developments have prompted several countries to issue similar advisories to their citizens in Israel. The Indian Embassy’s advisory is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of its citizens amidst an unpredictable and potentially dangerous situation.