KATHMANDU, Feb 2: Israeli Ambassador to Nepal, Shmulik Ari Bass, met with Speaker Devraj Ghimire on Sunday to discuss bilateral relations and the situation of Nepali student Bipin Joshi, who is reportedly under the control of Hamas.
During the meeting, Speaker Ghimire urged Ambassador Bass to prioritize efforts for Joshi’s safe release and to clarify his situation publicly. He also expressed hope that Nepal-Israel relations, established in 1960, would strengthen further under the ambassador’s tenure.
Ambassador Bass assured that Israel is actively working to secure Joshi’s release and suggested Nepal seek international support for the effort.
On October 7 last year, a Hamas attack in Israel resulted in the deaths of 10 Nepali students and workers, while Joshi's whereabouts remain unknown.
The Israeli ambassador also said that life in Israel is returning to normalcy post-conflict and encouraged Nepal to facilitate the return of Nepali students studying there. He also invited Speaker Ghimire to visit Israel.