Ongoing Conflict in the Persian Gulf Region Affects Repatriation of Nepali Nationals
Kathmandu, April 4 — The ongoing conflict in the Persian Gulf region has created significant challenges for the repatriation of the bodies of 38 Nepali nationals, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During a press conference in Kathmandu, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lok Bahadur Chettri highlighted that flight disruptions have made it difficult to bring back the remains of those who died.
The deaths of the Nepalis were attributed to various causes unrelated to the war. To date, the ministry has confirmed only one Nepali death in the UAE due to the conflict, while 21 others sustained minor injuries and have since returned home after receiving treatment. The US-Israeli military actions against Iran, which began on February 28, and subsequent Iranian counterattacks across the Gulf show no signs of easing soon.
Chettri expressed serious concerns about the delay in repatriating the bodies of Nepalis who died from non-conflict-related causes. He outlined the locations of the deceased: 15 in Dubai (UAE), 17 in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), 1 in Oman, 4 in Abu Dhabi (UAE), 5 in Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), 3 in Tel Aviv (Israel), 2 in Qatar, and 1 in Bahrain. Of these, nine bodies were successfully brought back via Kuwait Airways on Wednesday, with efforts continuing to repatriate the rest.
On Friday, the government deployed a nonscheduled flight to Dubai to assist in bringing back some of the bodies. Another Nepal Airlines flight scheduled for Sunday will also transport the remains of Nepali migrant workers who died under various circumstances.
Since the conflict began 35 days ago, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up a platform for the Nepali diaspora in Gulf nations to register their names, addresses, and other details for potential evacuation. According to Chettri, around 86,420 Nepalis have registered so far. However, the number of people considering themselves unsafe is gradually decreasing.
Nepalis have been advised not to post misleading or rumor-spreading content on social media during the conflict. Despite this, 11 Nepalis who violated these rules have been detained in various Gulf states.
Chettri also mentioned that 11 Nepalis currently in Iran are safe and in contact with the Nepali mission in Doha. He urged those in serious difficulties and wishing to return home to reach out to relevant embassies, noting that facilitation efforts are underway.
He added that the situation does not indicate large-scale job losses among Nepalis in the region. However, there is a possibility of some impact in sectors such as hospitality and construction, and the ministry is continuing necessary initiatives and coordination in this regard.
Regarding the arrest of Amit Jha in Iran, the foreign ministry stated that the incident occurred before the current tensions began, and a court decision is pending. Efforts are ongoing to obtain detailed information about Jha’s arrest and provide legal assistance through the Nepali mission in Doha and the Nepali consulate in Iran. “A lawyer has met him, and he is reported to be safe,” said Chettri.
MoFA Unveils 10-Point Agenda for Reform
Following the announcement of a 100-point roadmap for good governance and reform by the Rastriya Swatantra Party government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has introduced a 10-point agenda aimed at reform and efficient service delivery.
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Passport Act Amendment: The ministry plans to register a bill to amend the Passport Act, 2076, which is expected to be completed within a month.
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Appointment System for Passports: The Department of Passports will effectively implement the existing appointment system for passport applications. Preparations are underway to complete this within 15 days.
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Document Authentication Services: The ministry aims to make document authentication services more effective, organized, technology-friendly, and service-oriented. This initiative is related to expanding the consular services system, with a target to complete it within 45 days.
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AI-Based Virtual Assistance: An AI-based virtual assistance system will be launched to simplify service delivery by the ministry and its agencies. This is planned to be completed within 90 days. The passport department and Nepali missions abroad receive over 8,000 inquiries, calls, and other grievances daily.
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Repatriation of Affected Nepalis: There is a plan to repatriate Nepalis affected by the ongoing conflict in West Asia as soon as possible, in coordination with Nepal Airlines Corporation and Himalayan Airlines. Travelers will bear the airfare, and this task is to be completed within 15 days.
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Mobile App for Consular Services: A mobile app for the Department of Consular Services and diplomatic missions will be developed to easily receive and address service-related requests and complaints. Work has already started, with an expected completion within 30 days.
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Payment Services for Passport Fees: The ministry will expand payment services for passport-related revenue fees. Work has begun, with a target to complete this within 45 days.
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Rescue and Relief Fund: A Rescue and Relief Fund will be established within 60 days to support Nepali citizens abroad for purposes such as rescue, body management, legal aid, and defense, especially those traveling for foreign employment, study, tourism, or other purposes.
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Locating and Rescuing Nepalis Abroad: The focus includes locating and rescuing Nepalis abroad who are in trouble, stranded, or in prison. It also involves expanding the system for insurance claims and compensation for injured or deceased Nepalis and their families to all districts and 753 local units. This system will allow individuals and their family members to easily submit applications and access necessary information. This initiative is planned to be completed within 90 days.
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Improving Front Desks and Help Desks: The front desks and help desks at the department will be further organized and improved to make them more service-friendly. This is expected to be completed within 15 days, according to Chettri.
