Amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran, the Indian Embassy in Iran released a public advisory on Friday for Indian citizens and people of Indian origin living in the country.
The embassy posted on X (formerly Twitter), “In view of the current situation in Iran, all Indian nationals & persons of Indian origin in Iran are requested to remain vigilant, avoid all unnecessary movements, follow the Embassy’s Social Media accounts & observe safety protocols as advised by local authorities,” the advisory read.
Israel Strikes Iran, Declares Nationwide Emergency
This advisory came shortly after Israel confirmed launching a preemptive strike against Iran. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declared a national emergency in Israel, warning of possible retaliation.
As quoted by The Times of Israel, Katz said, “Following the State of Israel’s preemptive strike against Iran, a missile and drone attack against the State of Israel and its civilian population is expected in the immediate future.”
He also stated, “I signed a special order, according to which a special state of emergency will be imposed in the home front throughout the entire State of Israel.”
Katz urged Israeli citizens to strictly follow safety instructions. “You must obey the instructions of the Home Front Command and the authorities and remain in the protected areas,” he added.
Sirens and Security Cabinet Meeting in Israel
As the situation escalated, sirens were heard across multiple locations in Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called an emergency meeting with the security cabinet to discuss next steps.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) clarified that the sirens were not due to an attack but a precautionary alert. Tzvika Tessler of the IDF Home Front Command explained that the alarms were meant to signal that Israel was entering “a new situation.”
Tessler warned that a significant attack from the east could happen soon. He said this may include “heavy missiles” capable of reaching any part of the country. “We will give far-reaching warnings,” he assured.
IDF Launches ‘Nation of Lions’ Operation Against Iran’s Nuclear Sites
The IDF confirmed it had begun a large-scale aerial offensive on Iran, specifically targeting locations linked to Iran’s nuclear program. According to The Times of Israel, the Israeli Air Force is attacking dozens of targets across Iran, including military and nuclear-related facilities. The operation has been named “Nation of Lions.”
The IDF stated that Iran possesses enough enriched uranium to make several nuclear weapons within days. It called this an “imminent threat” that required immediate action.
Furthermore, Israeli sirens were sounded earlier as a precautionary measure, ahead of any expected retaliation from Iran.