LONDON, June 19: The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has stepped up efforts to assess the safety of Nepalis in Israel and initiate potential rescue operations in response to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.
During a virtual interaction on Wednesday evening, NRNA held discussions with Nepal’s Ambassador to Israel, Dhan Prasad Poudel, and other stakeholders to get updates on the current situation.
NRNA Israel chapter President Shree Krishna Bhandari highlighted the severity of the current crisis, stating, “This situation is more sensitive than past wars, but following government-issued safety protocols can help reduce risks.” He also urged Nepalis to refrain from spreading negativity on social media.
Similarly, NRNA Israel General Secretary Ali Mohammad Miya emphasized strict adherence to Israeli safety measures. He mentioned that services such as transportation and shops are still operational, but vigilance remains essential due to the unpredictable nature of the conflict.
Ambassador Paudel advised Nepalis to stay in shelters and strictly follow safety guidelines. “So far, there have been no formal evacuation requests, but procedures have been initiated for the evacuation of a doctor and the Mayor of Biratnagar,” he said. He added that some undocumented Nepalis have shown interest in returning to Nepal.
The embassy is urging those wanting to return to fill out the official evacuation form provided by Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate the process.
Many Nepalis working in Israel expressed that they do not currently intend to return to Nepal. NRNA central officials, including General Secretary Gauri Raj Joshi, Vice President Rojina Pradhan Rai, and Spokesperson Phanindra Pant, emphasized the need for staying safe and pledged necessary support.
According to NRNA CEO Rajendra Kumar Raut, a hotline service will be launched starting Thursday through the NRNA Secretariat to provide information and assistance to Nepalis in Israel.