Condition of Hamas abductee Bipin Joshi unconfirmed: Foreign Minister Rana

Kathmandu, February 28 — Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has stated that the exact condition of Nepali youth Bipin Joshi, who was abducted by Hamas along with hundreds of others on October 7, 2023, during its attack on Israel, has not been fully confirmed.

Speaking to the media at Tribhuvan International Airport after returning to Nepal on Friday from the 58th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Minister Rana mentioned that although the exact details regarding Joshi's situation are not clear, efforts are being made to facilitate his release.

She confirmed that assurances for the release of Nepali citizens under Hamas control have been received from the international community.

She added that maximum diplomatic efforts are being made to secure Joshi's freedom.

Minister Rana also shared that during the high-level session, Nepal urged the member countries to cast their votes for membership in the UN Human Rights Council.

She updated the media about Nepal's commitment to the defense and promotion of human rights. 

Additionally, she mentioned that during her stay in Geneva, she held significant bilateral meetings with foreign ministers from various countries.

Dr. Rana had led a six-member Nepali delegation to Geneva last Saturday.