Kathmandu: The NGO Federation of Nepal (NFN) has called for an immediate ceasefire and peaceful resolution as tensions escalate between Iran, Israel, and the United States.
Issuing a press statement on March 1, NFN expressed serious concern over the rising military confrontations and warned that the intensifying conflict is severely affecting human rights, social justice, peaceful coexistence, regional stability, and global peace. The statement was released by President Arjun Bhattarai and Secretary General Devi Khadka.
According to international reports cited in the statement, the United States and Israel have jointly carried out attacks on several cities in Iran, prompting missile strikes in retaliation. The conflict has reportedly resulted in significant civilian casualties, including at least 51 deaths and dozens of injuries in an attack on a school in southern Iran. Reports have also emerged regarding the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The federation highlighted concerns over the safety of more than two million Nepalis residing in countries across the affected region. It urged the Government of Nepal to ensure timely assistance, coordination, security arrangements, and access to reliable information for Nepali citizens living abroad.
NFN warned that the escalating conflict could have far-reaching consequences for the global economy. Noting that Iran is a major oil-producing nation and that nearly 20 percent of the world’s oil supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz, the federation cautioned that continued instability could disrupt global markets.
Calling for restraint from all sides, NFN appealed for an immediate halt to violent activities and the resumption of diplomatic dialogue under the leadership of the United Nations. It emphasized the need to strengthen diplomatic initiatives to secure a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
The federation further stressed that protecting the lives, rights, and security of Nepalis living abroad is the primary responsibility of the state and urged authorities to enhance preparedness and coordination mechanisms.
Reaffirming its commitment to human rights, social justice, and world peace, NFN urged all parties involved in the conflict to renounce war and pursue dialogue for lasting stability.
