Kathmandu: Nepal Government has called on Qatar and Egypt to help secure the release of Nepali student Bipin Joshi, who is being held hostage by the Hamas group.

Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba made the appeal to both countries’ ambassadors in Nepal following reports that Hamas plans to release 34 hostages, including women, children, and the elderly.

Minister Deuba urged the governments of Qatar and Egypt—who are mediating with Hamas—to take immediate action. Deuba also contacted Qatar’s Ambassador Mishal Mohammad Ali Al-Ansari, who said he would discuss the matter with Qatar’s foreign minister.

The government continues its diplomatic efforts, having also raised the issue with Israel’s ambassador.

Bipin Joshi was taken hostage during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, which killed over 1,000 people, including 10 Nepali nationals.