March 20, Kathmandu – Ongoing conflicts in West Asia have posed significant challenges in bringing back the remains of 38 Nepalis.
The conflict between Israel–America and Iran has disrupted the repatriation process from various countries in the Gulf region and West Asia, affecting the return of 38 deceased Nepalis.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reported that difficulties arose as air routes needed to transport the bodies have been obstructed.
Spokesperson Lok Bahadur Paudel Chhetri clarified that necessary arrangements are underway, and the remains will be brought back to Nepal shortly.
Of the bodies pending return, 17 are in Saudi Arabia, 15 in the United Arab Emirates, 2 in Qatar, 1 in Bahrain, and 3 in Israel (including 2 in Cyprus and 1 in Israel itself). Spokesperson Paudel confirmed ongoing efforts to repatriate these remains to Nepal.
Meanwhile, on March 18, the remains of 9 Nepalis were successfully transported from Kuwait. These nine bodies, along with 291 passengers, arrived at Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa via a Kuwait Airways flight.
