Nepal Intensifies Diplomatic Efforts for Release of Bipin Joshi Held by Hamas

Kathmandu: Nepal has stepped up diplomatic initiatives to secure the safe release and return of Nepali student Bipin Joshi, who has been in Hamas captivity since October 7, 2023, while participating in Israel’s agricultural “Learn and Earn” programme.

In the latest development, President Ramchandra Paudel sent a letter on August 24, 2025 (8 Bhadra 2082) to King Abdullah II of Jordan, requesting his support in identifying Joshi’s condition, facilitating his release, and ensuring his safe return to Nepal. The President expressed that the Nepali government and people would highly value all humanitarian and diplomatic efforts made by His Majesty for this purpose.

President Paudel also highlighted the longstanding friendly relations between Nepal and Jordan and reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties. Moreover, he praised King Abdullah’s leadership in promoting humanitarian values, conflict management, and intercultural harmony, while pointing to opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, labour migration, cultural exchange, and people-to-people relations.

Earlier, under the sponsorship of the Government of Israel and with Nepal’s support, Joshi’s mother, Padma Kumari Joshi, and sister Pushpa Joshi, visited Israel, where they held meetings with the country’s President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and other senior officials, urging prompt action for his release. Upon their return, they met President Paudel and Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba on August 24 and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on August 23.

Despite ongoing diplomatic engagement, Joshi’s condition has not yet been confirmed. The Government of Nepal has reiterated its commitment to continue working through bilateral, regional, and international platforms to secure his safe release and repatriation.