'Leave If You Feel Unsafe': India Urges Citizens To Consider Voluntary Exit From Israel, Issues Helpline

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Last Updated:June 19, 2025, 13:36 IST

The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has not ordered a mandatory evacuation, but has “strongly urged” Indian nationals to voluntarily depart if they feel insecure.

The Israeli Iron Dome air defense system fires to intercept missiles during an Iranian attack over Tel Aviv, Israel, early Wednesday, June 18, 2025. (AP Photo)

Amid growing fears of a potential military escalation between Israel and Iran, India has advised its citizens in Israel to consider leaving the country if they feel unsafe, top government sources have told CNN-News18. This advisory comes in the wake of a similar security warning issued by the United States to its nationals, raising concerns over the regional conflict intensifying.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has not ordered a mandatory evacuation, but has “strongly urged" Indian nationals to voluntarily depart if they feel insecure. Approximately 40,000 Indians currently reside in Israel, and the embassy has prepared a comprehensive database to assist and coordinate any evacuation efforts.

To ensure efficient communication, all Indian nationals have been requested to register with the embassy via its official portal (indembassyisrael.gov.in). This will allow them to receive real-time alerts and emergency support. The embassy has also activated 24/7 emergency helplines for assistance: +972-3-5226748 (emergency) and +972-3-7620700 (general enquiries).

Unlike the government-led evacuation from Iran – where Indian citizens were flown out via Armenia — the current plan for Israel is voluntary, land-based, and coordinated with the support of the embassy. Indian citizens are being advised to exit the country using two key land routes:

Via Jordan: Indians can exit through the Allenby Bridge or King Hussein Bridge crossings. However, this requires obtaining an eVisa through Jordan’s Interior Ministry portal.

Via Egypt: Another option is the Eilat-Taba border crossing, from where Indians can travel to Sharm el Sheikh. This also requires an eVisa, which can be acquired via Egypt’s e-visa portal.

For those who choose to remain in Israel, the embassy has shared a set of safety guidelines. These include avoiding non-essential travel, staying close to bomb shelters, and closely monitoring alerts issued by the Israeli Home Front Command through its website (oref.org.il).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly conveyed India’s deep concern over the tensions and reaffirmed India’s support for peace and stability in the region during discussions with Israeli leadership.

In view of the situation, Indian nationals in Israel are being urged to remain alert, stay informed through embassy updates, and proactively plan their exit routes if concerned about their safety.