KATHMANDU, JANUARY 14
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has intensified its diplomatic efforts to secure the safe release of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali citizen believed to be held captive by Hamas.
These efforts align with reports of Hamas releasing 34 captives, including women, children, and the elderly.
Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has been appealing to countries engaged in mediation with Hamas and negotiating ceasefires to amplify their efforts for Joshi's release.
Today, Dr. Rana held a telephonic conversation with Qatar's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, urging him to take special initiatives to secure Joshi's freedom. She commended Qatar for its longstanding friendship with Nepal.
During the discussion, Dr. Khulaifi, a key mediator in the peace talks with Hamas on behalf of the Qatari government, reported progress in efforts to bring Hamas to a ceasefire with Israel. He outlined Qatar's ongoing initiatives for the release of hostages and assured that Joshi's case had been prioritized.
Dr. Khulaifi further noted that Joshi would be included in the first phase of the hostage release, focusing on women, children, and the elderly. If not, he assured that Joshi's case would be given priority in subsequent negotiation phases.
Last week, Dr. Rana met with ambassadors from Israel, Egypt, and Qatar, seeking their governments' support in securing Joshi's release.
In response, Israeli Ambassador to Nepal Shmulik Arie Bass informed that Israel had submitted a list of captives to Hamas months ago, requesting the release of the elderly, women, children, and those in critical health conditions as part of the first phase. He added that preparations for the release were underway.
Joshi was among those kidnapped during Hamas' attack on Israel in October 2023, which claimed over a thousand lives, including 10 Nepalis.
Since the attack, the Government of Nepal has remained steadfast in its diplomatic efforts to ensure Joshi's release. Dr. Rana has consistently raised the issue at national and international forums, including the United Nations, and through bilateral meetings, advocating for Joshi's safe return.