Nepal Issues Safety Alert for Citizens in Israel and Iran Amid Rising Tensions
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Kathmandu, Feb 28 (NationPress) On Saturday, the government of Nepal issued a warning to its citizens residing in Israel, Iran, and various other Middle Eastern nations, advising them to remain alert and adhere to the security guidelines provided by local authorities as tensions rise due to the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran.
Recently, the United States and Israel initiated coordinated airstrikes against Iran, prompting a series of retaliatory attacks from Tehran following unsuccessful negotiations regarding the Iranian nuclear program. Reports from international media indicated that explosions were reported across multiple regions in Iran, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar.
In light of the tragic loss of nearly a dozen Nepali citizens during the Hamas assault on Israel on October 7, 2023, the Nepalese government reiterated the urgency for its nationals in Israel and Iran to follow local security advisories meticulously.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) urged Nepali citizens to stay indoors whenever possible, remain vigilant, exercise necessary caution, and maintain regular communication with fellow Nepalis in their area.
In its advisory, the ministry recommended that citizens avoid traveling without prior permission from local authorities. It also emphasized the importance of staying in touch with the Ministry in Kathmandu, the Embassy of Nepal in Tel Aviv, and the Embassy of Nepal in Doha via designated contact methods.
Nepalis contemplating travel to Israel or Iran are strongly encouraged to delay their plans until the security situation improves in both regions. The ministry has also called on its citizens in other Middle Eastern countries to stay abreast of developments and adhere to precautionary measures set forth by local authorities.
Millions of Nepalis are employed across the Middle East, notably in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, which are key destinations for Nepali migrant labor.
The ministry confirmed that it is working closely with Nepalese diplomatic missions and relevant international partners to safeguard the welfare of Nepali nationals abroad.
Additionally, the Embassy of Nepal in Doha has released a notice for its citizens in Iran, advising them to keep in regular touch with the embassy through official channels and to seek safety in designated shelters or secure areas near their homes.
They have also been cautioned against traveling without authorization from Iranian officials and to continuously monitor local news, official announcements, and emergency alerts.