Nepali Hero Bipin Joshi's Death Confirmed After Two Years in Hamas Captivity

There were 16 other Nepali nationals at Kibbutz Alumim when the Hamas attack occurred.

Kathmandu:

Interim Nepalese Prime Minister Sushila Karki expressed profound sorrow on Wednesday regarding the death of Nepali citizen Bipin Joshi, whose remains were transferred by Hamas to Israel, bringing a sorrowful conclusion to two years of uncertainty and anticipation.

In a statement 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."

According to the Times of Israel, Joshi, aged 23, had arrived in Israel in September 2023, just 25 days before the October 7 attacks, participating in the 'Learn and Earn' program while studying and working at Kibbutz Alumim.

In her tribute, Karki stated, "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."

The Prime Minister referred to Joshi as "a son of Nepal and a supporter of peace" who became "an inhuman victim of international conflict."

She mentioned that since learning of his abduction, the entire nation had been praying for his safe return, but confirmation of his death had "shattered all our hopes and dreams of the past two years."

Karki praised his bravery during the Hamas assault, adding, "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."

Among the 17 Nepali nationals present at Kibbutz Alumim during the attack, ten were killed, five were injured, and one escaped without harm.

On Tuesday, Nepal's Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai conducted a telephone conversation with Israel's Foreign Ministry Director General Eden Bar Tal.

According to a statement from the Nepalese Foreign Ministry, the Israeli government conveyed its condolences to the bereaved family and to the government and people of Nepal.

The statement also indicated that Israel has promised complete 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 noted.

Rai further confirmed that the Embassy of Nepal in Tel Aviv has been instructed to work closely with Israeli authorities to facilitate the return of Joshi's body to Nepal.