It is welcoming news that Hamas has begun releasing foreign nationals alongside Israeli hostages as part of the latest ceasefire agreement. With the Hamas group releasing five Thai nationals alongside three Israeli hostages, there are hopes in Nepal that a Nepali hostage, Bipin Joshi, will be released anytime soon. In Nepal, there is anticipation that Joshi could likely be included in the list of hostages that Hamas plans to release in yet another batch of such release on Saturday. The latest development offers a glimmer of hope for Joshi’s family, friends and the entire nation amid months of uncertainty and despair. Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has played a proactive role in her efforts to secure the release of Joshi, who Israeli intelligence has so far confirmed is alive and is hostage with the Hamas. The third phase of release of hostages, as a part of the latest ceasefire deal demonstrates that negotiations are yielding results in terms of securing the release of the hostages. The pattern of phased releases gives reason to hope that Joshi could be included in the next group of freed hostages. The assurance from the Israeli government that it has given priority to release Joshi along with that of Israeli nationals is positive. While asking the Israeli side to honor this commitment, Nepal needs to continue its diplomatic efforts and work closely with Israeli authorities and other actors such as Qatar and Egypt to bring Joshi back home at the earliest.
Joshi’s captivity has been a tragic reminder of the vulnerability of Nepali citizens working or studying in conflict zones. The October 7 attack by Hamas, in which approximately 3,000 armed militants stormed Israeli territories, led to the deaths of over 1,200 people and the abduction of 251 individuals, including Joshi. A total of ten Nepali students lost their lives and four others sustained injuries during the incident. These students had traveled to Israel under the Learn and Earn program, which provides agricultural training opportunities abroad. The attack not only shattered lives but also underscored the importance of a strong diplomacy in safeguarding its citizens abroad. The efforts taken by Foreign Minister Rana to secure Joshi’s release is highly commendable. As the top diplomat of the country, her efforts to communicate with officials in Israel, Qatar, Egypt and other relevant diplomatic channels should be further strengthened. Given that Hamas has only released Thai hostages so far, it is imperative that Nepal continues pressing its case with urgency and persistence to relevant allies and friends abroad.
It may be recalled that the government earlier faced widespread criticisms for failing to take more assertive diplomatic stances regarding Joshi’s release. The authorities must ensure they are utilizing all diplomatic means available this time. Every possible means—through bilateral negotiations, leveraging international organizations, and working alongside nations with stronger diplomatic influence—must be explored to secure Joshi’s safe return. While the latest ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel has paved the way for the release of hostages, tensions between Israel and Hamas remain high. This volatile situation calls for maintaining close coordination with all relevant stakeholders including Israeli authorities and making proactive efforts to secure Joshi’s freedom. Joshi’s safe return home would not only bring relief to his loved ones but would also reaffirm Nepal’s commitment to protecting its citizens in crisis situations. The government must continue the diplomatic push for Joshi’s release as Hamas releases additional hostages in the days ahead.