KATHMANDU, Jan 19: Nepali national Bipin Joshi, abducted by Hamas during its attack on October 7, 2023, has not been included in the list of hostages to be released in the initial phase of the Israeli-Hamas ceasefire agreement. The first release list comprises 33 hostages, but Joshi’s name is absent.
Joshi was in Israel under the ‘Learn and Earn’ agricultural study program and was taken hostage from Alumim Kibbutz during the attack. Hamas captured 251 individuals, including 94 who remain in custody—81 men and 13 women. Among them are one Tanzanian, eight Thais, and 84 Israelis.
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The first three hostages to be freed under the ceasefire deal are Doron Steinbrecher, Emily Damari, and Romi Gonen. Steinbrecher, a 31-year-old veterinary nurse, was taken from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. Damari, a 28-year-old dual British-Israeli citizen, and Gonen, a 24-year-old, were abducted while fleeing the Supernova Festival.
The truce, mediated by Qatar, the US, and Egypt, involves the exchange of hostages for Palestinian detainees held by Israel. The agreement’s first phase includes a six-week ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from northern Gaza, and the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes. Humanitarian aid delivery is also prioritized.
Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba has sought Qatar's assistance in securing Joshi’s release. Although initial efforts have been unsuccessful, there remains hope in subsequent negotiation phases.
The ongoing conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in deaths of over 46,800 Palestinians and 1,400 Israelis. The ceasefire offers a vital opportunity to address the humanitarian crisis and work toward the release of the remaining hostages.
