Tel Aviv, August 8

Despite harrowing circumstances in the Middle East, Nepali caregivers have expressed a strong desire to extend their permit to work in Israel.

Today marks 672 days since Israel has been at war following an attack by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023. The heinous attack claimed the lives of hundreds, including 10 Nepalis.

While four Nepalis suffered injuries, Bipin Joshi - who was taken captive at the age of 23 - has already turned 24, with no confirmed report on his status, as per the Israeli Foreign Ministry.

Nepali caregivers have been working in Israel for three years through the G2G (government-to-government) programme. Their agreement is for five years.

Contrary to the general expectation that they would be desperate to return to the 'safety' of their homeland, in an interaction with Nepali mediapersons at the Centre for the Elderly Tselon, in Tel Aviv, Israel, they urged Nepali Ambassador to Israel, Dhan Prasad Pandit to make diplomatic efforts to have their work permits extended.

However, Ambassador Pandit responded that although it appeared to be a plausible request, it was not timely. The nine caregivers of 26 working in the Tel Aviv care centre present during the interaction, nevertheless, insisted that it could be enormously advantageous for them to stay and work in Israel for a longer duration.

Giri Raj Oli shared that they have been earning on average Rs 250,000 to Rs 300,000 per month. 'If we could stay here a little longer, we could contribute more to our family members and country.'

He further said, 'We are very happy to work here as we serve elderly people. The country is very nice, and labour law is extensively helpful, which is what has encouraged me to stay here.'

Ashma Siwakoti from Sunsari district has been working in Israel for over three years. 'The experience of working here has been amazing and I have been able to fulfil my aspirations.'

Amrit Sapkota, who is from Chandragiri, recently completed three years here in Israel. He explained that the ground reality is not as dire as portrayed in the media. 'We feel safe to work here. I have the freedom to choose my work and earn better. We receive all the services and perks on time and without any hassle.'

He also emphasised that if protocols of safety are followed during an attack, everyone in Israel, including Nepalis, receives at least 10 minutes of prior notice to stay safe and protected. 'If protocols of safety mechanisms are followed, there is no need for concern,' he said.

Sapana Karki, 32, speaking with THT, spoke highly of the labour laws and protection mechanisms for the workers. 'We are allowed to change the work station in case of dissatisfaction and can even sue companies with local lawyers in case of violation of contracts.'

Sita Jirel, who has been working in Israel for three years seconded Karki, and said, 'We feel extremely safe here - both economically and socially.'

Manju Bhujel, NRNA-Israel vice-president, shared that Israel is a more matriarchy-oriented country, which made her stay more comfortable. 'Our bosses are women, and they are so cooperative and helpful. We get to enjoy our freedom to the fullest. No one says anything or attempts to harass us even if we go out in the middle of the night.' She said that there were 26 Nepalis working in the centre, with several more employed in nearby stations. 'It's like our own small community here.'

Asked when she wants to return to Nepal, she responded, 'It's difficult to work and look after family members or do even business in Nepal. However, I would like to get back to Nepal if it's more stable both politically and economically.'

As per Nepali Embassy records, around 5,000 Nepalis are working in Israel. However, Bhujel claims the number is much higher.

'Many Nepalis come via India,' she told THT. 'It breaks my heart listening to Nepalis complaining and sharing their poignant stories with me, 'I have paid four million rupees to come to Israel'. It is sad to see that Nepal is not allowing people to come and work here, while people coming to Israel are, in a way, burdening themselves immensely.'

But on the bright side, she said 'they can stay and work in Israel for as long as they want'.