Kathmandu, Oct 15 (NationPress) The Interim Prime Minister of Nepal, Sushila Karki, expressed profound sorrow on Wednesday regarding the demise of Nepali citizen Bipin Joshi, whose remains were transferred from Hamas to Israel, marking a tragic conclusion to two years filled with uncertainty and hope.

Karki took to X to share her shock, stating, "I am heartbroken by the confirmation of Bipin Joshi's tragic passing after two years of unwavering hope and prayers. This devastating news brings us immense grief. In this challenging time, I pay my respects to him and extend my deepest condolences to his mourning family and loved ones."

At just 23, Joshi had arrived in Israel in September 2023, a mere 25 days prior to the October 7 attacks, participating in the 'Learn and Earn' initiative where he was both studying and working at Kibbutz Alumim, as reported by the Times of Israel.

In her tribute, Karki remarked, "Bipin Joshi was more than a student; he represented countless Nepali youths seeking knowledge abroad. His life was characterized by passion, resilience, and a generous spirit. We had hoped for his safe return and anticipated his significant contributions to Nepal's development."

The Prime Minister honored Joshi as "a son of Nepal and a champion of peace," who unfortunately became "a victim of international conflict."

Karki mentioned that the nation had united in prayer since the news of his abduction, but learning of his death had "devastated all our hopes and dreams accumulated over the past two years."

She praised his bravery during the Hamas attack, stating, "Though he is no longer with us, his remarkable act of saving many friends through unparalleled courage and sacrifice before being taken hostage will forever be remembered. This heroic deed is the most significant legacy of his life, ensuring he lives on as a symbol of Nepali pride. May Bipin Joshi's soul find peace. His sacrifice and valor will never be forgotten by our nation."

During the attack, 16 other Nepali nationals were present at Kibbutz Alumim; tragically, ten lost their lives, five were injured, and one escaped unscathed.

On Tuesday, Nepal's Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai engaged in a phone conversation with Israel's Foreign Ministry Director General Eden Bar Tal.

The Israeli government conveyed its condolences to Joshi's family and to the people and government of Nepal, as stated by the Nepalese Foreign Ministry.

Furthermore, Israel has pledged complete support for the repatriation of Joshi's remains.

"Foreign Secretary Rai expressed genuine gratitude to the Government and people of Israel for their relentless efforts until the very end to ensure the safety of hostages," the statement detailed.

Rai also confirmed that the Nepalese Embassy in Tel Aviv has been instructed to coordinate closely with Israeli authorities to assist in repatriating Joshi's body back to Nepal.