Unprecedented Attack Sparks Urgent Advisory For Indian Nationals In Israel

Palestinian militants launched a brazen attack in Israel, prompting the Indian Ministry of External Affairs to issue a critical advisory for all Indian nationals residing in the region. The advisory, released on Saturday, called for heightened vigilance and strict adherence to safety protocols recommended by local authorities.

"Given the current situation in Israel, we urge all Indian nationals in the country to exercise utmost caution, avoid unnecessary movements, and remain in proximity to safety shelters," the advisory emphasised.

Approximately 18,000 Indian citizens, with diverse occupations such as caregiving for Israeli elders, diamond trading, IT professions and education, are currently residing in Israel, according to data from the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv as of February.

The situation escalated dramatically as salvos of missiles rained down on Israeli territory from Gaza, with air raid sirens blaring as far north as Jerusalem. Disturbing social media footage appeared to depict Palestinian militants in uniform within the Israeli border town of Sderot. Tragically, the death toll from this series of Hamas rocket attacks has risen to 22.

The Israeli military has confirmed multiple infiltrations near the Gaza border in southern Israel, a development that led to immediate orders for residents to stay indoors. In response to the growing threats, cities and towns across southern Israel rapidly emptied, as millions of Israelis sought refuge in bomb shelters, their anxiety palpable as air raid sirens wailed overhead.