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As tensions flare in the Middle East following Iran’s counterattack on Israel, concern has grown over the safety of Nepali citizens living in the region. Bhupal Luitel spoke with Nepali Ambassador to Israel, Dhan Prasad Pandit, to understand the current situation on the ground, the status of Nepalis there, the embassy’s contingency plans, and the latest updates on Bipin Joshi, the Nepali national who has been missing since the Hamas attack in Oct 2023. Excerpts:

We’ve heard a state of emergency was declared after the counterattacks between Israel and Iran began. What is the current situation there now?

The attack began at 3 pm local time here. Even as I am speaking to you, sirens continue to sound intermittently. The first missile attack on Tel Aviv took place at 9 pm. Then, from 1-2 am to 3-4 am, the attack continued with loud noise. The situation here is fine as of 7 am. People are rushing to bunkers within 90 seconds of the siren and remain there for at least 10 minutes. After Israel launched its attack on Iran, there have been reports of hundreds of drones being launched in response, most of which have been intercepted by Israel’s ‘Iron Dome’ defense system. Since the incident began, I’ve been in frequent contact with Nepali government officials and members of the Nepali community, regularly updating them on the situation here.

How many Nepalis are there, and what is their situation?

Neither the Nepali government nor the embassy has accurate data on the actual number of Nepalis in Israel. While the official records only those who came through the G2G (government-to-government) mechanism, there are also Nepalis who arrived via India using Indian passports. Even though they are not counted in official statistics, they continue to send remittances to Nepal—so for practical purposes, they should be considered. This discrepancy makes it difficult to assess the actual number. However, if we include both legal and undocumented individuals, the estimated number of Nepalis in Israel ranges between 5,000 and 7,000. We have contacted the Nepalis and asked them to take help from us but 99 percent of the Nepalis said that they don’t want us to rescue them. There are two reasons for this. One is the job with an attractive salary and the other is the situation where you will not be able to return and get the same job here.
 

As for the current situation, there is no immediate reason for panic among the Nepali community, but discipline and preparedness are crucial. The most important thing is to strictly follow the safety protocols—this includes immediately going to the bunker when sirens sound, avoiding unnecessary movement outside, and especially refraining from going out during times of active crisis.

It’s difficult to assess how the war will unfold. If it escalates further, what preparations has the embassy made?

We are in constant communication with the Nepali government, Nepali citizens in Israel, and their families back home. If the situation escalates into a full-scale war, our response will be limited by our capabilities and available resources. In such a scenario, we would also seek support from neighboring countries. I am currently in touch with ambassadors from Cyprus, India, Thailand, and others to make contingency plans in case a rescue operation becomes necessary for Nepalis.
 

Recently, a delegation including Biratnagar Metropolitan City Mayor Nagesh Koirala arrived here amidst much confusion. I met with him and helped facilitate their return to Nepal via Cyprus. At the same time, I’ve come across Nepalis who have only recently arrived in Israel. Many of them are facing challenges—from not understanding Hebrew to feeling unsafe in older bunkers. I’m working with local officials to ensure they receive the support they need.
 

We have already issued an advisory to all Nepalis here. However, if the war intensifies significantly, I must honestly say that our capacity to evacuate all Nepalis is extremely limited. For comparison, India has around 30,000 to 35,000 citizens here, and it is unlikely they could evacuate everyone at once. Sri Lanka has a similar number, the Philippines about 30,000, and China around 40,000. In such a crisis, every country faces limitations.

We have no choice but to seek international assistance if needed. That said, Nepal has a history of stepping up during crises. If evacuation becomes impossible, the best course of action would be for Nepalis to remain in safe shelters with adequate supplies of food, water, and essentials

It has been about six months since you arrived in Israel as an ambassador. What is the status of Bipin Joshi?

As of now, we still do not have any clear information regarding the status of Bipin Joshi. The Israeli government does not know, nor does the local army. Of the remaining three hostages, Hamas recently returned the body of a Thai citizen who had reportedly died back in December 2023. A Nigerian hostage has also been confirmed dead, and there are reports that his body is being prepared for return. But when it comes to Joshi’s status, I truly cannot say anything beyond this at this point.

Storyteller Saigrace Pokharel has released a new book titled ‘Saigrace: The Storyteller’, which reflects on his journey in the field of storytelling. The book launch coincided with his 100th live performance, held in Colorado, United States.

The event was attended by several personalities, including Nepali singer and writer Hiranya Bhojpure; Binod Adhikari, Goodwill Ambassador for Nepal in the US; Nabaraj Shrestha, President of the Global Nepal Film Award America; musician Manoj Raj Siwakoti; and Colorado event organizer Suman KC.

The book covers the global history of storytelling and highlights moments from Pokharel’s performances around the world. It includes insights into the reception of his works, including Mero Adhuro Prem, an audio novel that ranks fourth globally and first in Nepal on YouTube viewership charts.

Personal reflections are also featured, with Pokharel recounting experiences with audiences and noting how storytelling has resonated with listeners, including stories of emotional impact. ‘Saigrace: The Storyteller’ offers an overview of Pokharel’s career and emphasizes the broader influence of storytelling on audiences.

GMOs have been transforming global agriculture for decades, delivering bigger harvests, drought-resistant crops, and reduced pesticide use. While countries like the U.S., Brazil, and China charge ahead with gene-editing tech, Nepal remains hesitant—weighing the risks of unknown consequences against the urgent threats of climate change and food insecurity.

The Global GMO Impact

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are crops engineered for resilience—think drought-proof rice, pest-resistant maize, and vitamin-packed Golden Rice, designed to combat malnutrition in the Philippines. The US dominates with GMO corn and soy, while India’s Bt cotton revolutionized its textile industry.

But the debate rages on. Cornell University researchers highlight GMOs’ potential to boost small-scale farming and cut chemical use. Harvard scientists, meanwhile, urge caution, demanding stricter safety checks and skepticism toward corporate control. At its core, this isn’t just a scientific issue; it’s about food sovereignty, seed ownership, and who bears the cost if things go wrong.

The ethics and environmental dilemma

Critics aren’t just fearmongering. Valid concerns persist: Could GM crops disrupt ecosystems? Will corporations monopolize seeds? Are there long-term health risks?

Yet, most experts agree: With proper oversight, GMOs could reduce pesticide reliance, improve nutrition, and fortify crops against climate extremes. The real question isn’t whether GMOs are inherently good or bad—it’s how to harness them responsibly.

Nepal’s stalled experiment

Nepali farmers face relentless challenges—erratic weather, pests, and depleted soils. While GMOs remain confined to labs, interest is growing. Gene-editing could help adapt local varieties to harsher conditions.

Dr Ramita Shrestha (Nepal Agricultural Research Council) advocates for homegrown solutions: "”We need crops tailored to Nepal’s terrain—but also transparent policies and public dialogue, not backroom decisions.”

The problem? Nepal’s restrictive seed laws stifle research. While biodiversity protection is crucial, overregulation leaves farmers stranded with outdated tools.

Finding the middle ground

Nepal doesn’t need to embrace GMOs blindly—or reject them outright. The solution lies in: rigorous, localized testing; smart, adaptable regulations; and farmer and public engagement.

A balanced policy could safeguard seed rights, spur innovation, and ensure transparency. Done right, GMOs wouldn’t mean importing "frankenfood"—but empowering Nepali agriculture to thrive on its own terms.

The bottom line

GMOs aren’t hypothetical; they’re already shaping global food systems. As experts debate, Nepal faces a choice: Stay on the sidelines or actively shape its agricultural future. With careful strategy, GMOs could be a tool for resilience—but only if Nepal asserts control over the process. 

Prakash Khadka

KMC, Bhaghbazar

June is recognized as the pride month—a time to celebrate the rights of the LGBTIQA+ community—and Nepal will be hosting a pride parade on June 14. The event will serve as a vibrant and powerful platform for LGBTIQA+ individuals to come together, raise awareness, and advocate for equality, acceptance, and inclusion. Participants from diverse backgrounds will participate in the parade, showcasing unity and pride, and demanding for equal rights for all. ApEx spoke to three people from the community to understand where things stand and what they think must be done to make the situation even better. 

Preti Petter

I came out as a transwoman when I was 25 years old. Looking back, I realize that I had had to keep my true self hidden for a long time. Over the years, I’ve witnessed many positive changes in Nepal, especially as the government has started to work on legal frameworks supporting the LGBTIQA+ community. But there is still much that needs to change. Women in Nepal have long been vocal about their rights but our community has grown stronger and more empowered compared to them in a short time. Yet, we continue to face challenges. For example, when applying for citizenship cards, we are required to disclose every detail about ourselves, which can feel invasive and discriminatory. 

Recently, Nepal marked a milestone with its first successful male-to-female gender-affirming surgery. We had the opportunity to meet the individual and the medical team involved, and we were welcomed with respect and positive hospitality. This was a meaningful step forward. Our school curriculum should include inclusive and accurate representation. We’ve heard that the government has allocated a budget for our community, but we don’t know how it will be used—whether for training, job creation, or other initiatives. Slowly but surely, we are also advocating for a seat at the table in policy making and leadership roles. 

Anu Shahi Thakuri

I knew that I was different from a very young age but I identified myself as a transgender when I was 16 years old. It changed everything in me. When I told my parents, they said that they always had a feeling but they took it as a phase that would fade soon. Being a transman, menstruation is my biggest challenge. There has been a campaign named ‘Men Bleed too’ where many showed their support and defended it too. But at the same time, it’s difficult to access public toilets. I didn’t go to the toilet even once in my college life because there was no washroom facility for us. 

I think students should be educated about gender and sexuality so that they can be aware of their identity from early on. I heard that grade 12 students do have a course on gender but they aren’t taught properly. Once, we were asked to take classes on gender and it was a really nice opportunity for us to share our experiences. Another thing that needs to change is that we should be allowed to participate in policy making, at both local and national level. We need representation if our voices are to be heard and we shouldn’t just be there to fulfill a quota. 

Sanket Bashyal

As someone who is gay, I’ve always felt judged. I’ve also been at the receiving end of mean and hurtful comments. I have been told that I’m not “man enough” or that my expression and behavior are feminine. Fortunately, my family is supportive and caring. They are learning things about me, with me. The good thing is that Nepal has seen some significant changes where the LGBTIQA+ community is concerned in recent years. One major milestone was the legal recognition of same-sex marriage in 2023, making Nepal the first South Asian country to do so. There’s also growing social awareness and legal support for gender and sexual minorities, reflecting a more inclusive society. But there are still areas of concern.

Government policies are generally supportive, but their implementation can be inconsistent, especially outside urban centers. In healthcare, while there’s growing awareness about issues like HIV and transgender health, discrimination persists in medical settings, and many LGBTIQA+ individuals still lack access to culturally competent care. Legal protections exist, but there are gaps, particularly in employment, housing, and family rights, which means many queer individuals remain vulnerable to discrimination. The government needs not to just pass progressive laws but make sure they’re actually being enforced—especially when it comes to things like workplace equality and healthcare access.

Society needs to step up too by fostering awareness and understanding, especially in rural areas, so that everyone feels safe and accepted. Media has such a powerful role here—by showing positive, real representations of LGBTIQA+ individuals, we can shift perceptions and break down stereotypes. And in schools, integrating LGBTIQA+ topics into the curriculum and training teachers to be more inclusive can make a huge difference in how the next generation views diversity. 

Israel continues to carry out waves of airstrikes targeting Iranian military, nuclear sites, and major cities. In response, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned of “severe punishment” for what he called a crime that killed top commanders and nuclear scientists.

Shortly after the strikes, Iran launched over 100 drones toward Israel, according to the Israeli military, which is working to intercept them. Isareli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the operation will persist “as long as necessary”, Al Jazeera reported.

US President Donald Trump urged Iran to pursue a nuclear deal before it’s “too late,” while Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the US is not involved and warned Iran against targeting American bases.

A Delhi-bound Air India flight made an emergency landing in Phuket, Thailand, on Friday following a bomb threat, a day after the deadly crash in Ahmedabad. The plane returned shortly after takeoff, and all 156 passengers were safely evacuated. Authorities have not released details of the threat, according to Firstpost.

Meanwhile, recovery efforts continue following the Ahmedabad tragedy, in which Air India Flight AI171 crashed into residential quarters shortly after takeoff. At least 265 bodies have been recovered. Only one passenger survived. Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the fire, which was fueled by 1.25 lakh liters of aviation fuel, rendered rescue impossible. DNA tests are being conducted to identify victims.

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All preparations for the 'EV Rally', an event organized annually by the Annapurna Media Network to raise awareness about climate change and reducing air pollution, have been completed.

The program will be held at Bhrikutimandap from 8 am on Saturday. This is the fourth edition of the rally.

“We have been organizing EV rallies every year to spread awareness about climate change and reducing air pollution,” Annapurna Media Network General Manager Manoj Basnet said, adding, “This time, we are drawing the attention of the UN to internationalize the agendas of climate change and air pollution raised during this rally.”

Basnet said that 35 corporate houses have collaborated in the awareness campaign on climate change and air pollution reduction.

The main sponsors of the EV Rally are Hyundai, Global IME Bank Ltd., Curvv.ev (SUV Coupe), Proton E MAS7, Ather, Skywell, Nepal Electricity Authority, Indrive, Save The Children, Oriental Insurance, Hilton Kathmandu, Nami College, KIEC, NAMMI, Fonepay, Yeti Airlines, Real Juice, Jalapa Fresh, Aroma, Star Hospital, Subishu, Khadya Byawastha Tatha Byapar Company Ltd., Sath Sathai, iPPAN, AVNI Center For Sustainability, Gham Power,ARKSH Food, Rastriya Banijya Bank, WWF, Citizens Bank Limited, Henery Volts, Simrik Air and ZEHO.

Along with the rally, there will also be EV vehicles, food stalls,  kidzone for children and live bands.

The live concert will feature musical performances by child singer Prayush Gautam, singer Sanjja Chaulagain, Benisha Poudel, Laxmi Archay, singer Pawan Giri, and Karan Pariyar, while comedian Dinesh Kafle (Howde Dai) will perform in the event.

AMN General Manager Basnet has invited everyone to participate in this awareness campaign to reduce climate change and air pollution.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the site of the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad and met with injured victims at the Civil Hospital on Friday.

The London-bound flight crashed into a residential area shortly after take-off on Thursday, killing 241 of the 242 people on board. The sole survivor, British national Vishwashkumar Ramesh, is recovering in hospital. The number of casualties on the ground remains unknown, according to Firstpost.

The aircraft was carrying 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian, according to Air India.

Families of the victims have begun providing DNA samples to aid in the identification process.

PM Modi chaired a high-level meeting in Ahmedabad with ministers and senior officials to oversee rescue operations, victim identification, and support measures for affected families, according to Firstpost.

Describing the tragedy as “beyond words,” Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and offered condolences to the bereaved families.