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The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is on steady rise, tensions running high in Israel. However, over 94 Israeli trekkers—34 with varying disabilities included—achieved something which is thousands of miles away in the northeast of the country. Among them were former soldiers injured in the war, currently in recovery, who sought solace and strength in the breathtaking yet demanding Annapurna Circuit. This trip represents a symbol of resilience, courage, and determination. At the same time, it highlights the pressing issue of climate change as Nepal grapples with its consequences, including heavy rains that left the group stranded for two days. As Israel is struggling with war, Nepal is in trauma of devastation caused by heavy downpours. 

This outstanding trek took place in the span of a week (Sept 18-26). There are physical injuries as well as environmental hazards. However, the tourists braved the odds and went on an incredible trek to Annapurna Base Camp. It is a story of the will of human beings, cooperation, and inclusiveness. The trek culminated in their return to Israel on Sept 30, where they were welcomed not only as trekkers but as symbols of hope and resilience.

Group of extraordinary trekkers

Among the 94 trekkers were 12 individuals using wheelchairs and 22 others with various physical disabilities, supported by able-bodied staff. Together, they navigated the rugged Annapurna Circuit, crossing the Thorung La Pass at 5,416 meters—one of the world’s highest and most challenging mountain passes. This was no ordinary trek; it was a mission to prove that with the right support, even the most daunting physical and environmental challenges can be overcome.

It started from Humde Local Airport, a gateway to the Annapurna region. From there, the group embarked on the trek, making their way through rugged terrain and stunning landscapes. Two nights were spent in the scenic tourist destination of Manang village to help the team acclimatize to the altitude and further experience the Nepali culture. They got to have a taste of the local cuisine and hospitality as a warm up ahead of the tougher sections of their journey. 

The group was stranded in Pokhara for two days due to heavy rains that blocked roads and grounded flights. Nepal, like many parts of the world, is facing the severe consequences of climate change, and this was a stark reminder of the environmental challenges that are becoming more frequent. Despite the delays, the group remained undeterred, using the time to bond and reflect on the significance of their journey.

Triumph amid challenges

When the group arrived back at Nepal’s Tribhuvan International Airport, they were treated as a hero’s welcome. Israeli Ambassador to Nepal, Hanan Goder, and Laxman Gautam from the Nepal Tourism Board, were there to celebrate their incredible achievement. The trek was a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the vital need for inclusivity.

A statement released by the Israeli Embassy in Kathmandu emphasized the significance of the trek. “Through this audacious activity, the delegation hopes to inspire and send out a message of inclusiveness, determination, and teamwork. The delegation also intends to raise awareness about the capabilities of people with disabilities and remind everyone of the incredible opportunities that emerge when people come together to support one another.”

The trek was organized by a group led by Shimon Prientee, a passionate advocate for people with disabilities. For over 25 years, Prientee’s organization has been helping individuals with various physical challenges—including those in wheelchairs, people battling cancer, and individuals with cerebral palsy—to experience the world through adventure. This trek to Annapurna was one of many life-changing journeys he has facilitated.

“The organization started to help people who want to walk but are in wheelchairs, those with cancer, or those who are blind or have cerebral palsy,” Prientee spoke with a emotion about his mission, “We wanted them to see beautiful places like Annapurna, just like anyone else.”

For Prientee, Nepal was the perfect destination for the adventure. “I found Nepal to be the best place to do it, especially in the Annapurna region, because you meet friendly people, and enjoy the spectacular scenery. Locals praise the courage of incredible trekkers in wheelchairs or with other disabilities. 

This was the sixth time Prientee had organized such a trek, but he believes the concept could and should expand globally. “I believe more people should be doing it—not just Israelis. People from Europe, the United States, and Asia could come here with people with disabilities, and together they could experience this beautiful place,” he said.

Overcoming personal battles

For many of the trekkers, this journey was not just about the physical challenge of the Annapurna Circuit; it was a personal battle against the limitations imposed by their disabilities or injuries.

One of the trekkers, 22-year-old Matan Misan, a former Israeli soldier, shared his story of recovery. Matan was injured during his military service and is still in the process of healing, both physically and emotionally. “It wasn’t my choice to come here,” Matan said. “It was Shimon Prientee who asked if I wanted to join the group. I said yes, and here I am, trekking the Annapurna.”

Matan was moved by the beauty of the region and the kindness of the people. “The people here are so nice, and the food is simple but delicious. Everything is beautiful, I just love it,” he said. However, he also admitted that relying on others for help was one of the biggest challenges. “The main challenge is needing help from other people. There’s no other choice. If I want to climb here, I have to get someone’s help.”

Another trekker, Nilly Ofan, who is physically disabled, shared similar sentiments. For Nilly, the trek was an opportunity to push her limits and inspire others. “My experience was amazing,” she said. “I never thought I could do something like this. It’s very extreme, but I like that- this trek fulfills my lifetime dream.”

Nilly’s determination was evident throughout the trek. “I chose to travel to inspire the world and show that if I can do it, anyone can,” she said. Despite the challenges, Nilly is already looking forward to her next adventure. “Nepal is a beautiful country, and I’m excited to visit Mount Everest next time if I get the chance.”

The trek was made possible only by incredible support from the local community and Shimon. Both Nilly and Matan expressed their deep gratitude for the assistance they received throughout their journey.

“The local community helped me so much. This trip wouldn’t have been possible without their support,” Nilly said. “Shimon helped me achieve my dream.” 

Matan also highlighted the kindness of the porters, who played a crucial role in making the trek possible. “The porters were so kind,” he said. “They helped me carry my bags and talked to me. Their support made the trip easier for all of us.”

Call for greater accessibility

While the trek was a resounding success, it also highlighted areas where Nepal can improve to make tourism more accessible for people with disabilities. Both Nilly and Matan noted the lack of accessible infrastructure, particularly in trekking areas.

“The main problem is accessibility,” Nilly explained. “The infrastructure isn’t really targeted toward physically disabled people, especially in trekking areas. There should be more focus on accessible toilets, walking trails, and guest houses.”

Despite these challenges, both trekkers spoke fondly of the experience and the lasting memories they will carry with them. For Matan, the simplicity of life in the mountains left a deep impression. “The thing I’ll take away from this trip is the simplicity,” he said. “There’s a beauty in how simple things are here, and that’s something I’ll always remember.”

For Nilly, the people she met along the way left the greatest impact. “I think the main thing I’m going to take from Nepal is generosity and welcoming of people here,” she said. “They work so hard, and they helped me achieve my dream. I’ll always remember them.”

Message to the world

As the group returned home to Israel on Sept 30, they brought with them more than just memories of the Himalayas. They returned with a message to the world: that physical disabilities do not define one’s potential, and with support, determination, and teamwork, anything is possible.

For Shimon Prientee, this trek was about more than just completing a challenging route. It was about changing perceptions and showing the world that people with disabilities can achieve the extraordinary. “It’s amazing to see how people in wheelchairs can experience the beauty of Annapurna,” he said. “I hope more people from around the world will follow Israel’s lead and create opportunities for disabled travelers to explore such incredible places.”

This group’s journey around Annapurna is proof that with the right support, no mountain is too high to climb—both literally and metaphorically. Their story is a powerful reminder that barriers are meant to be broken, and with perseverance, we can all reach great heights.

Nepali Congress meeting Mahasamiti is underway in Kathmandu which is deliberating the documents presented by Vice-president Purna Bahadur Khadka and general secretaries duo Gagan Kumar Thapa and Bishwa Prakash Sharma. In this context, Dilip Karki spoke with the Mahasamiti members about the recent demands inside the party that Nepal be declared as a Hindu state. 

Bishwa Prakash Sharma

This coalition represents a challenging journey of political parties with different ideologies. After the dissolution of the previous House of Representatives, the parties formed the coalition to protect the Parliament and the Constitution, and continued it through the general election as well as to form a government. Despite the fact that our backgrounds and ideological lines are different, the pre-poll alliance did achieve some successes. However, new challenges and dissatisfaction have also surfaced. Nevertheless, it is not necessary to discuss the electoral alliance four years before the election. An appropriate decision will be taken at an appropriate time on whether to form an alliance in the upcoming elections or to field NC candidates in all seats of all three tiers of government.

In his organizational report presented at the Mahasamiti meeting, General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa has termed the pre-poll coalition politics a strategic issue and situational compulsion necessitated by special circumstances. He has stated that the party cadres have understood this coalition as an erosion of party ideology and are dissatisfied with the party. We need to educate party workers that the alliance had to be formed due to the circumstances created by the special political event and it is not a regular political event.

Bahadur Singh Thapa

This coalition should be continued for the tenure of this Parliament. We should understand that this coalition had to be formed to reinstate the dissolved parliament and to protect the constitution. A discussion has begun in the party about whether we need to form a coalition for the next election. I think we shouldn't make any decision in haste as there is a lot of time until the next election. It would be very good if we are in a position to contest the election single-handedly. But various strategies are formed in the election. Any decision about whether to form a coalition should be based on these strategies. Voices that the party should contest in the election independently are rising in the party.

Jip Chhiring Lama

There is no need to rush into the issue of whether to form a coalition as we still have four years until the next election. This is not an issue that we should be discussing now. The Mahasamiti meeting should create a blueprint for the prosperity of the country and strengthen party organization. Since forming an electoral coalition is a strategic issue, we can’t decide now what should be done.

Bhupendra Jung Shahi

Voices are rising in the party that the party shouldn't form an electoral alliance. Those who created this situation should be held responsible for this. This voice means that Nepali Congress is the largest party in the parliament and CPN (Maoist Center) with 32 seats should exit the government. I believe it was wrong to form this coalition. The coalition has weakened the party. The Mahasamiti meeting will take the necessary decision to strengthen the party.

Parbati Acharya

Coalition should be formed after confirming its justification on the basis of geography. In the past, our workers had to vote for candidates of other parties even in constituencies where NC was strong. It was an injustice to party leaders as the coalition created a situation where they couldn’t get a ticket to contest. Therefore, the coalition should be based on the need and the situation. I don't believe we shouldn’t say no to the coalition now as proposed by the General Secretary. Our performance was poor in 2017 when we contested single-handedly, while we became the largest party by forming a coalition in 2022.

Bilochan Chaudhary

All party leaders and cadres aspire to participate in the election on behalf of the party. Many friends, who have made a long contribution to the party, were deprived of opportunities in the election due to the coalition. This weakened the party. Therefore, the party should decide it won’t enter into any coalition and work to strengthen party organization from the lowest level.

Dinesh Rai

We had long been saying that the party shouldn’t enter into any electoral alliance. We fully support the general secretary’s proposal that NC should clearly state that it won’t form any electoral alliance. Even if we are to continue this alliance till the full term of this parliament, the party shouldn’t enter into other alliances.

Usha Raut

The general secretary’s proposal regarding electoral alliance is populist. He was prepared to become a minister in the government formed by the alliance that NC formed before the election. I don’t understand why he is rushing with this because the election is still four years away.

Aa per the party’s statute, Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba cannot run for a third consecutive term. Given his age and the intra-party dynamics, he is unlikely to take initiatives to amend the statute to remove the term limits. 

In this scenario, the stage is set for a new generation of leaders to take the reins of the party. The list of potential contenders is long and includes figures like Gagan Thapa, Shekhar Koirala, Prakash Man Singh, Bimalendra Nidhi and Purna Bahadur Khadka. But one thing is clear: As Deuba wields a majority within the party’s Central Working Committee, Parliamentary Party and Mahasamiti, securing his vote of confidence is crucial for the Congress presidential hopefuls.

Currently, all eyes are on incumbent General Secretary Gagan Thapa and the Koirala family scion Shekhar Koirala. Gagan Thapa and Shekhar Koirala were in the same camp during the 14th General Convention, but as they aspire for the top job, the distance between them is widening. 

Many insiders believe that Koirala is strategically getting closer to Deuba to clinch the party presidency. Their budding bonhomie was apparent when Koriala praised Deuba’s leadership during a TV interview.

Thapa, on the other hand, has traversed a winding path within the party. His journey, marked by alliances and shifts, has led him to his current position as the party’s general secretary. Yet, questions abound regarding his loyalty and next move.

In the 13th General Convention, where Thapa was defeated in the general secretary race, his vote helped Deuba secure the presidency. In return, Deuba appointed Thapa as the Health and Population Minister under the Cabinet of CPN (Maoist Center) Chair Puspa Kamal Dahal.

However, after the first federal election in 2017, Thapa shifted his position. Following the election, Deuba and former Deputy PM Prakashman Singh were seen as contenders for the position of parliamentary party leader. However, Thapa’s group supported Singh against Deuba’s candidate, and Singh lost in the parliamentary party’s election.

In the 14th General Convention, Thapa's ambitions became more prominent, and he aligned with the Koirala camp against Singh and Sitaula. In the Parliamentary Party election of 2023, Thapa stood against Deuba, sidelining Koirala. Before the parliamentary party's candidate selection, Shekhar's group and Thapa assured that in the upcoming leadership opportunity, they would propose Koirala for the top post. However, it now appears that Thapa is bypassing Koirala in various aspects. Still, leaders from the Shekhar-Gagan camp are trying to resolve their disputes. They propose Koirala as the party president and Thapa as the second-in-command. 

However, members from the Thapa camp say that leadership is not bestowed as a gift; it is a demand of the times, and Thapa will vie for the presidency in the 15th General Convention.

Deuba and Koirala clan

Deuba, a trustee of BP Koirala, the founding leader of Nepali Congress, and a supporter of Krishna Prasad Bhattarai, was defeated in the leadership race against Girija Prasad Koirala and Sushil Koirala. After Sushil's passing, he competed against Ramchandra Poudel and Shekhar Koirala and secured the Congress presidency on both occasions.

Shashank Koirala, who emerged as a prominent figure during the 13th General Convention, had initially supported Deuba's candidacy and continued to do so during the 14th General Convention. However, the 14th General Convention created an environment where the members of the Koirala clan—Shekhar, Shashank and Sujata— found themselves in separate camps, which ultimately benefited Deuba. Shashank now appears to be closer to Deuba, and there is a growing thaw between Deuba and Shekhar. Shashank has indicated that he is preparing to contest the 15th General Convention for the presidency, regardless of support from Shekhar or not. Shashank believes that he has a better understanding of the Congress and the challenges it faces. 

Prakash Rasaili, a leader from the Shekhar-Gagan faction, believes that despite Shashank's skills as a politician, Deuba is unlikely to hand over the party leadership to the Koirala clan. Deuba's strategy, he says, is to create divisions in the opposition camp to ensure an easy victory for his own candidate. Relations between Shashank and Thapa were not cordial during the 14th Convention, as Shashank felt he was bypassed. A leader close to Shashank says that they are cautious about Thapa potentially betraying them at any time.

Shashank Koirala, Prakash Man Singh and Bimalendra Nidhi engaged in intense discussions during the 14th General Convention of the party. With the rising prominence of BP Koirala's and Mahendranarayan Nidhi's sons in political cooperation, the NC was witnessing the emergence of a new wave.

During discussions led by the trio, they reached an agreement that one among them would run for the position of Party presidency, while the other two would provide their support. However, as the registration for candidacy approached in the first phase of the Convention, both Singh and Nidhi registered their candidacies, while Shashank supported Deuba.

During the first phase of the convention, no candidate could garner the required 51 percent of votes to secure victory. So a second round of voting took place. In the first phase, Singh received the third-highest number of votes and Nidhi secured the fourth-highest. Despite their aspirations of becoming the party president, Singh and Nidhi supported Deuba.

During this time, Deuba faced allegations of withdrawing support from Singh after making promises.

Will Khadka become Deuba's successor?

There is no certainty as to who will become the NC president, but there are some early indications. Top leaders from Deuba's camp, such as Purna Bahadur Khadka and Gopal Man Shrestha, are natural candidates for the party presidency. However, Shrestha's influence within the party is limited.

Regarding the allegations of Bal Krishna Khand's involvement in the fake Bhutanese refugee scandal, there is speculation among the opposition about Deuba's choice for his successor. This controversy has brought Khadka forward as a potential candidate from the Deuba faction. 

Badri Sigdel, the former president of Nepal Press Union, says Khadka’s experiences, including key roles during the party's previous split, as well as positions like party general secretary, vice-president, and current Deputy Prime Minister, highlight his seniority within the party. 

Deuba has not explicitly assured support to Khadka so far. This has led to a debate on Arzoo Deuba's position within the party. Leaders suggest that she is unlikely to run for party presidency but may contest for a vital office bearer position.

Congress leader Rasaili believes that despite Deuba's support, the group in which Arzoo becomes a candidate is destined for defeat. "There is no unity even within the Deuba group. Today, Deuba, who is the president and the leader of the parliamentary party, and who is likely to become the prime minister in the near future, is facing opposition from leaders within his own group. If he is not the party president tomorrow, the situation will be different. Everyone should pursue their own politics; leaders can't just follow Deuba's lead."

Sigdel holds a different opinion. He says: "Sher Bahadur Deuba, who has led the party for two terms, fought against the Koiralas in the past and has been prime minister five times, has a strong grip on the party. Without Deuba's support, no one can win the presidency, given the strong organization he has built. Even a small fraction of support from Deuba's camp can make a significant difference."

A central committee member close to Deuba says that since the Congress is currently undergoing internal reformation, there is no clear picture of who will be the candidates for the next general convention. Regarding Khadka’s chance of getting Deuba’s nod, he says: "The process of breaking up and rebuilding factions is still ongoing, so we have not reached a point where Khadka can be definitively called Deuba's successor."