Israeli Embassy confirms Bipin Joshi’s survival, hopes for his swift return to Nepal

KATHMANDU: The newly appointed Israeli Ambassador to Nepal, Shmulik Arie Bass, has confirmed that Nepali student Bipin Joshi, abducted by Hamas fighters, is alive.

Speaking at a press briefing in Kathmandu on Thursday, Ambassador Bass shared that Arab sources have provided information about Joshi’s status.

“Arab sources have indicated that Bipin Joshi is alive. However, we are unaware of his exact location or current condition,” he stated. “We hope for his safe return to Nepal soon. We believe he will be among the hostages released in the near future.”

According to the Israeli Embassy, over 100 Israeli and foreign nationals remain in Hamas captivity. “I can empathize with the emotions of Joshi’s family and others concerned about him. Bipin is very important, but we must also recognize that there are many others in similar situations,” he added.

On Oct 7, 2023, Hamas fighters attacked the Nova Music Festival and surrounding areas in Israel, killing 10 Nepali students who were participating in the “Earn and Learn” program. Bipin Joshi, the 11th student, was abducted during the assault.

The Israeli government has been providing financial assistance to the families of the deceased Nepali students, similar to the support given to Israeli families who lost loved ones. Ambassador Bass expressed hope that Nepali students would rejoin Israel’s “Earn and Learn” program in the future.

Currently, Nepal has halted the program due to the ongoing conflict. However, students from Malawi, Congo, and Thailand have resumed participation in the program. Highlighting the demand for Nepali students in Israel, Ambassador Bass said, “Israeli farmers are eager to have Nepali students return, where they can learn and earn. We expect the program to resume soon.”