Nepal-Israel relations have been cordial ever since the two countries established diplomatic ties in 1960, following the visit of Nepal's first democratically elected prime minister B P Koirala. Nepal was the first country in the region to recognize Israel as an independent state at the time, ahead of both immediate neighbors, India and China. Nepal firmly believes in Israel's right to exist as an independent state. The Nepal-Israel relationship has fostered opportunities for cooperation in various fields, including agriculture, science and technology, trade, tourism, and foreign employment. Israel has extended valuable cooperation to Nepal. Israel has been providing Nepal with short-term scholarships in various subjects particularly in the areas of agriculture, education, rural development, water resources and tourism.
On October 7, 2023, Hamas attacked Israel. Among some 1200 killed that day were 10 Nepali students while the 11th one, Bipin Joshi, was among hundreds of people abducted by Hamas. Nepal managed to rescue some Nepalis stranded following the October 7 attack and carnage in southern Israel. Since that incident, Nepal has stopped sending agriculture students to Israel under the Learn and Earn scheme, under which Joshi and 10 others were in Israel. While Israel has extended financial support to the families of the deceased Nepali students, the status of Joshi remains a sticking point for Nepal. His status remains unknown to this day. Last week, Israeli Ambassador to Nepal Shmulik Arie Bass told Nepali journalists that Joshi was still alive even as there was no detailed information on where he was being held and in what condition. The Israeli Ambassador hoped Joshi would be back home soon, and expressed optimism that Nepal would soon resume sending Nepali students to Israel, like Malawi, Congo and Thailand. The ambassador also indicated that Israel was ready to recruit 2000 Nepali caregivers.
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Of course, Israel is one of the lucrative destinations for Nepali workers, and these are welcome developments of late. But should Nepal Jump in just yet? Perhaps, not. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas poses significant risks to the safety and security of Nepali nationals. The ongoing conflict in that part of the world highlights the dangers faced by Nepali citizens in conflict zones. Ensuring the safety of its citizens should be a top priority for the Nepalese government, and sending more individuals to a volatile region could expose them to similar threats. Also, Nepal's readiness to send caregivers and students to Israel could have significant repercussions for Nepali migrant workers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain – all important sources of remittances for Nepal. By holding off on sending more workers and students to Israel, Nepal can avoid potential diplomatic tensions and safeguard its economic interests. The humanitarian situation in Gaza and the broader region remains dire, with ongoing hostilities affecting civilians on both sides. By refraining from sending more Nepali nationals to Israel, Nepal can take a principled stand on human rights and humanitarian issues. Prioritizing the safety and security of Nepali nationals, avoiding potential economic and diplomatic repercussions, and upholding humanitarian and ethical considerations are compelling reasons for Nepal to continue putting on hold the deployment of housemaids and students to Israel until lasting peace is achieved.
