Kathmandu– Interim Nepalese Prime Minister Sushila Karki on Wednesday expressed deep sorrow over the confirmed death of Nepali national Bipin Joshi, whose body was handed over by Hamas to Israeli authorities, ending two years of uncertainty and hope.
Posting on X, Karki wrote, “I am stunned by the news confirming the tragic death of Bipin Joshi amidst two years of unwavering hope and prayers. This heartbreaking news has caused us profound pain. In this difficult moment, I offer my heartfelt tribute to him and express deep condolences to the grieving family and relatives.”
Joshi, 23, had arrived in Israel in September 2023 under the “Learn and Earn” program, studying and working at Kibbutz Alumim just 25 days before the October 7 attacks, according to the Times of Israel.
Paying tribute to Joshi, Karki said, “Bipin Joshi was not just a student; he was a shining example of thousands of Nepali youth who have gone abroad in search of knowledge. His life was filled with enthusiasm, perseverance and a humble nature to help others. We wished that he would return safely and make a significant contribution to the development of Nepal.”
Calling him “a son of Nepal and a supporter of peace,” the Prime Minister said Joshi became “an inhuman victim of international conflict.” She noted that the entire nation had prayed for his safe return, but confirmation of his death had “shattered all our hopes and dreams of the past two years.”
Karki also praised Joshi’s courage during the Hamas assault. “He is no longer with us. But the fact that he saved the lives of many other friends by showing unprecedented courage, bravery and sacrifice in the last moments before being taken hostage has made us all forever grateful to him. This heroic act of his is the greatest legacy of his life, which will always keep him alive as a symbol of Nepali pride. May the soul of Bipin Joshi rest in peace. The nation will never forget his sacrifice and bravery,” she said.
Sixteen other Nepalis were present at Kibbutz Alumim when the attack occurred. Ten were killed, five were injured, and one escaped unharmed.
On Tuesday, Nepal’s Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai held a phone conversation with Israel’s Foreign Ministry Director General Eden Bar Tal.
In a statement, Nepal’s Foreign Ministry said Israel had extended its condolences to the government and people of Nepal and assured full assistance for the repatriation of Joshi’s remains.
“Foreign Secretary Rai expressed sincere appreciation to the Government and people of Israel for their continued efforts, up to the last moment, to ensure the safety of hostages,” the statement read. Rai also confirmed that Nepal’s Embassy in Tel Aviv has been instructed to work closely with Israeli authorities to facilitate the return of Joshi’s body to Nepal. (Source: IANS)
