KATHMANDU, Oct 16: The Government of Israel has announced that it will grant the family of late Nepali student Bipin Joshi, who was killed by the militant group Hamas, the same rights and care provided to Israeli citizens who lose their lives in acts of terrorism. The decision follows the recent confirmation of Joshi’s death nearly two years after he was abducted during the Hamas attack on southern Israel in October 2023.
According to a statement released by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the ministry’s Director General, Eden Bar-Tal, spoke with Nepal’s Foreign Secretary, Amrit Bahadur Rai, regarding the repatriation of Joshi’s body and Israel’s continued support to his family.
Director General Bar-Tal expressed profound sorrow over what he described as the “brutal murder” of Bipin Joshi, extending condolences on behalf of the State of Israel to the government and people of Nepal.
He informed that memorial ceremonies will be held in Israel and Nepal as a tribute to Joshi—one during the departure of his coffin from the Israeli airport, and another upon its arrival in Kathmandu, where the Israeli ambassador will be present.
Bar-Tal emphasized that Joshi’s family would receive “the same rights and care that families of murdered Israeli citizens receive,” reflecting Israel’s deep respect and recognition of the tragedy of Joshi’s death.
Food crisis looms large as drought hits Madhesh districts
Foreign Secretary Rai, in response, expressed appreciation for the “compassionate and dignified handling” of the case by the Israeli government. He thanked Israel for its continued support and solidarity during what he called “a deeply painful chapter” for both Joshi’s family and the Nepali people.
Bipin Joshi, a student from Nepal, was among 17 Nepali youths working on an agricultural exchange program in Israel when Hamas militants launched an attack on October 7, 2023, targeting southern Israeli communities near the Gaza border. The assault killed 10 Nepali nationals, while Joshi was reported missing and later confirmed to have been taken hostage by Hamas.
For nearly two years, Joshi’s whereabouts remained unknown despite repeated diplomatic efforts from Nepal and international organizations. Earlier this week, Israeli officials confirmed that his body was recovered and handed over by Hamas as part of a humanitarian exchange.
Joshi’s death has evoked widespread mourning in both countries, with Israeli and Nepali officials describing him as a symbol of friendship between the two nations. The Government of Nepal has also expressed gratitude for Israel’s cooperation in locating and repatriating Joshi’s remains.
His coffin is expected to arrive in Kathmandu later this week, where a tribute ceremony will be organized jointly by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Israeli Embassy.
Nation will never forget Bipin’s sacrifice and bravery: PM Karki
Prime Minister Sushila Karki said the nation will never forget Bipin Joshi’s courage and sacrifice, calling him a symbol of Nepal’s pride and resilience.
In a message of condolence released on Wednesday, Prime Minister Karki expressed deep sorrow over Joshi’s tragic death, acknowledging his unmatched bravery during his final moments in captivity, when he risked his life to save many of his fellow companions.
“Though he is no longer with us, Bipin showed extraordinary courage, bravery, and sacrifice before being taken hostage, saving the lives of many others. His heroic act will forever keep him alive as a symbol of Nepali pride,” she said.
The prime minister said she was shocked to learn the news confirming Joshi’s death after two years of hope and collective prayers for his safe return. “This heartbreaking news has caused immense grief to everyone,” she said, offering heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and relatives.
Prime Minister Karki described Joshi not just as a student but as a bright representative of thousands of Nepali youths studying abroad in pursuit of knowledge. “His life was filled with enthusiasm, dedication, and humility. We had hoped he would return safely and make meaningful contributions to Nepal’s development,” she added.
Forensic tests have also confirmed that the recovered body was indeed that of Bipin Joshi, putting an end to the long uncertainty surrounding his fate.
