Author: space4knews

March 21, Kathmandu – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed confidence that the ongoing war against Iran will conclude earlier than most anticipate. Following Netanyahu’s remarks, crude oil prices fell on Friday.

Traders have also welcomed statements from U.S. President Donald Trump. After attacks on Qatar’s main gas field in the Gulf on Wednesday, Iran warned of retaliatory strikes against fuel processing facilities in the Gulf region. Subsequently, President Trump indicated that Israeli forces would not target Tehran’s energy infrastructure.

As the conflict enters its fourth week, investors are showing concern regarding the energy market, and interest from new investors in Gulf energy centers has declined. Although oil prices have stabilized around $100 per barrel, the effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical route for global supply—has caused gas prices to surge significantly.

Claiming victory over Iran, Israeli and U.S. officials have said the Islamic Republic lacks the capability to enrich uranium or manufacture ballistic missiles, Netanyahu declared, “This war is ending much faster than people think,” without providing a precise timeline. He added, “Israel will assist the United States in securing the Strait of Hormuz, where one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas flow through.”

This statement contrasts with Washington’s position, which has not set any firm timeline for ending the war that began on February 28.

Before Netanyahu’s comments, crude oil prices had surged to $119 per barrel following Iran’s retaliation against Israeli attacks in its South Pars region and strikes on various energy sites across the Gulf.

When asked if he had discussed the gas field attack with the Prime Minister, President Trump responded, “I have talked to them. I asked Israeli officials not to target fuel production and processing sites, and they have agreed not to.”

He had already warned Iran: “If Tehran does not stop attacking Qatar, U.S. forces will conduct extensive strikes in South Pars.”

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans for his country to establish a framework with the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council.

As the Gulf nations endure ongoing conflict without an immediate prospect for peace, Israel initiated a wave of attacks on Tehran on Friday, while Iran targeted neighboring countries by conducting drone strikes on oil processing centers in Kuwait.

Stephen Innes of SPI Asset Management commented, “Netanyahu’s remarks have added a reassuring balm to tensions, reinforcing the belief that the conflict will soon end through assurances of Strait security and neutralizing Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities.”

– From RASAS

March 19, Damauli (Tanahun) – A maternity ward is set to be constructed at the GP Koirala Respiratory Treatment Center located in Belchauta, Shuklagandaki Municipality-5, Tanahun. The hospital has issued a call for bids to build the ward on the upper floor of the facility.

Dr. Ramkumar Shrestha, the hospital’s Executive Director, informed that the Ministry of Health and Population has allocated NPR 13,053,064 for the construction of the maternity ward. He expressed confidence that this new ward will enhance maternal and neonatal services at a regional level.

The planned maternity ward will include delivery beds, neonatal care equipment, essential medical supplies, a clean environment, and basic amenities for patients and attendants.

Established as one of South Asia’s premier respiratory care centers, the hospital was founded in 2010 BS (circa 1953 AD) under the national initiative to set up a respiratory treatment center named after the late former Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala.

In 2018 BS, ownership of the Setiganga Community Hospital, located on the same site, was transferred to the GP Koirala Respiratory Treatment Center. Currently, the center holds 740 ropani of land.

The hospital regularly treats patients with diarrhea, typhoid, fever, gastric and abdominal conditions, as well as orthopedic cases, in addition to injury victims from road accidents. It has continuously expanded various health services in recent times.

Dr. Shrestha emphasized that the expansion of treatment facilities is aimed at providing comprehensive healthcare services to the public efficiently.

The hospital serves not only residents of Shuklagandaki Municipality, Bhimad Municipality, Myagde Rural Municipality, and Rishing Rural Municipality in Tanahun but also patients from several rural municipalities in Syangja, Palpa, and Nawalparasi districts.

Currently, the hospital offers specialist services in orthopedics and neurology, general surgery, and internal medicine. Besides these, it provides culture tests, outpatient services, 24/7 emergency care, laboratory tests, video X-rays, minor operations, and has also initiated respiratory treatment services.

March 19, Kathmandu – Thirty-year-old Gita Gurung from Solukhumbu has become the youngest Member of Parliament representing Nepali Congress through proportional representation.

Gurung began her political journey as the unit president of the Nepal Student Union while studying in 8th or 9th grade at Thulung Dudhkoshi village in Solukhumbu. She asserts her mission is to amplify the voices of youth within Parliament.

Entering Parliament carrying the aspirations of a new generation, concerns about climate change risks, and the pain of brain drain, she said, “Aside from raising other issues, I will prioritize a special debate on the climate change problems faced by our Himalayan districts.”

Achieving the feat of becoming a Congress MP at just 30 years old, Gita comes from a politically active family background. Her political journey began at home. Her father, Indra Gurung, was a local social activist and a dedicated Congress worker. In their village, his presence was sought after at various events.

“When people sought and respected my father for his service, I also developed the aspiration to serve in such a manner,” she recalled.

Solukhumbu was deeply affected by the Maoist conflict, with a two-day journey required from headquarters to reach many villages. Despite the adverse conditions, her father carried the Congress flag forward. Congress leaders visited their home regularly. She heard stories of the peace process led by Girija Prasad Koirala and also learned about the nation’s democratic and multi-party history at home. These experiences cemented her belief that Congress was the right party. She began engaging in politics openly from 8th grade within the student union.

“I have two daughters. When society questioned about not having a son, my father would firmly defend us by saying daughters must be given the same education and opportunities as sons because they can also advance,” she said, reflecting on his words.

Gita asserted that student politics remains essential and its justification has not ended. Responding to views dismissing the relevance of student organizations recently, she declared, “They serve as a permanent opposition, safeguarding educational rights, pushing for administrative reforms, and warning the government. Rather than ending, these organizations need reform.”

Her family’s rebellious spirit provided a strong foundation for her political path. Being a ‘first student’ at school made leadership roles easier. She led village activities such as volleyball tournaments, debate contests, and attendance use among students, consistently mobilizing the youth of her community.

After passing her SLC in 2009 (2066 BS), she moved to Kathmandu to study Plus Two Science at Trinity International College, obtained a Bachelor of Science from Tri-Chandra College, and completed a master’s in international relations from Tribhuvan University.

She was active in the Nepal Student Union during college and contested for the Free Student Union chairperson position at Tri-Chandra. In 2016 (2073 BS), she became a central member of the Nepal Student Union and served in that capacity until becoming an MP. She has continued as a central committee member during Dumjyang Sherpa’s tenure as well.

“Student politics is still necessary; its justification is not over,” she reiterated.

She noted deficiencies in the Congress party’s political training ground. The party’s general convention was halted, reliance shifted solely to an ad hoc committee, and no membership distribution occurred. Consequently, a new generation could not activate the organization, leading to organizational inactivity.

Reflecting on Congress’s underwhelming recent outcomes, she added, “Our results have not been as expected. There needs to be a rigorous party-level review on this.”

Currently, there are two types of education policies creating gaps between students from remote areas and cities, a disparity that needs to be bridged.

She is committed to voicing strong opposition in Parliament on education, youth, and climate change issues. “We will praise the government when it does good work, and alert it when mistakes are made. Opposition must play a firm role,” she stated. “This is not the time to be intimidated or discouraged. It is essential to responsibly exercise the rights granted by the people.”

Currently, around 1.9 to 2 million Nepalese are in the Middle East. If conflict escalates, how will they be brought back? There is a need for policy reform to prevent youth migration from villages which are increasingly being depopulated. How can this balance be achieved? How can work be facilitated smoothly? Gita plans to raise these pressing issues vocally in Parliament.

“At present, the dual education policy must be eliminated to reduce disparities between students in remote areas and cities,” she emphasized.

According to Gita, Solukhumbu is highly vulnerable to climate change. Avalanches occur even during the day. Areas with high carbon emissions are among the most affected. Such concerns need to be raised not only at the parliamentary level but also internationally. Continuous programs like the Sagarmatha Dialogue must be sustained. She intends to play a meaningful role in Parliament to highlight and address these challenges.

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March 18, 2026

March 19, Kathmandu – The Kanti Highway linking Kathmandu and Hetauda was obstructed after a landslide occurred. On Friday, following rainfall, a landslide took place at the Bhimphedi-8 Gangte section of the highway.

The Makwanpur District Police Office stated that efforts to remove the landslide debris are ongoing, coordinated with local government bodies and the road division office.

March 19, Kathmandu – The Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security has reopened labor permits for seven countries including those in the Gulf region.

Following the ongoing conflict between Israel, the USA, and Iran, issuance and renewal of labor permits across 12 countries were temporarily suspended.

A ministerial meeting held on February 28 decided to temporarily halt labor permit issuance. However, after receiving complaints from Nepalese currently on leave abroad who face difficulties returning home, the ministry decided on March 16 to resume labor permits for Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Yemen, Jordan, and Turkey.

This government decision has sparked debate. Some individuals working in the foreign employment sector have criticized it as inappropriate.

Rajendra Bhandari, former president of the Foreign Employment Association, said the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) should seek alternative solutions to their problems and that reopening labor permits was a wrong move.

He pointed out that many were unable to return due to the NRNA convention and argued that the labor permits should only have been reopened for those specific individuals.

He also warned that sending workers back abroad while the conflict persists could create situations requiring future evacuations.

“The war hasn’t ended. It’s not right to reopen permits for everyone just because NRNA members have problems,” he questioned. “If workers on home leave are granted new labor permits and face evacuation immediately after arriving abroad, what will we do then?”

He added that daily over 200 workers have started obtaining labor permits again, which could lead to further complications if evacuations become necessary.

On the other hand, the government has stated that the decision was made in response to numerous complaints from Nepalese facing difficulties.

Ramkaji Khadka, Joint Secretary for the West Asia Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, explained that labor permits were reopened because the situation in those countries was deemed stable rather than sensitive.

He noted that these countries are not directly involved in the Israel-Iran conflict and that air routes to Kuwait, Bahrain, and Iraq remain closed. Hence, labor permits have been reopened only for other countries.

The third meeting of the Emergency Response Team, chaired by Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, had decided to recommend reopening labor permits to the Ministry of Labour. Based on this, the ministry made its decision.

The ministry cited several reasons for reopening labor permits: the situation has improved from sensitive to stable, limited flights have resumed, requests and petitions from Nepalese associations and various individuals in those countries, as well as complaints raised in the media.

March 19, Kathmandu – As heavy rain continues in Kathmandu, accompanied by strong winds, various sections of the city’s roads have experienced increased traffic congestion. The water accumulation caused by the rain has significantly impacted vehicular movement, creating further challenges in traffic management.

According to Superintendent of Police (SP) Nareshraj Subedi from the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office, inspections in areas including Koteshwor have revealed a rise in traffic jams attributed to the rain. The waterlogged roads are making vehicle operation more difficult, leading to interruptions in traffic flow and heightened risk of accidents.

Due to these risks, traffic authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution and drive responsibly. Everyone is advised to remain patient and avoid rushing, ensuring safe travel.

“Traffic police personnel have been deployed across all locations; however, the volume of vehicles has increased due to the rain,” SP Subedi said. “It is crucial to adhere to traffic regulations and travel safely. A hasty approach can result in accidents.”

The strong winds have also raised concerns about fallen trees along roadsides, downed electric and telephone wires, collapsed poles, and damaged rooftops, prompting traffic police to request that unnecessary travel be avoided and extra caution exercised while traveling.

Moreover, drivers’ impatience, tendency to change lanes improperly, and disregard for traffic signals are major factors increasing accident risks during rainy conditions. Waterlogged potholes and damaged road surfaces in Kathmandu further exacerbate the likelihood of accidents.

Locations such as Maitighar, Putalisadak, and Tripureshwor have also experienced roadside waterlogging due to recent rains. – Rastriya Samachar Samiti (RSS)

6 Chaitra, Kathmandu – Since February 28, 2026, the direct military conflict between Iran and Israel-US has severely endangered not only the geography of the Middle East but also the lives of millions of migrant workers who form the economic backbone of the region.

Under the operation dubbed ‘Epic Fury,’ the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran’s strategic centers. In retaliation, Iran targeted US military bases and energy hubs in countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait with missile and drone attacks, turning the Gulf region into an active war zone.

While analysis abounds on the economic, geopolitical, and balance of power impacts, the safety of individuals remains a critical concern.

The war-torn areas disproportionately affect citizens from South and Southeast Asian countries, many of whom have been working tirelessly in construction and service sectors across these nations for decades.

Current Risks and Humanitarian Concerns

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states alone employ over 35 million migrant workers.

Following drone and ballistic missile strikes by Iran on US military installations in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman, the Gulf region has effectively become a ‘no-fly zone.’

Ninety-two percent of these workers are concentrated in the UAE. Since the onset of the conflict, flights to business hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been severely disrupted, forcing people to seek shelter in underground bunkers and secure shelters.

As of the third week of March 2026, Iran’s attacks have resulted in at least 14 civilian deaths in the UAE and other Gulf countries, including 11 foreign nationals.

The casualties include workers from Nepal, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Drone and missile debris in busy urban centers like Abu Dhabi and Dubai have directly targeted transportation and workers.

While wealthy citizens have managed relocations via private jets or alternate routes, lower-income workers face the grave dilemma of choosing between continuing work or preserving their lives. Many are unable to abandon their jobs due to fears that family remittances will stop.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) notes that the ‘kafala system,’ which binds workers to their workplaces, makes immediate departure extremely challenging.

India’s Diplomatic Evacuation Model

India has implemented a highly successful diplomatic plan to evacuate its citizens from Gulf countries, safely extracting about 220,000 people by March 16, 2026, in what is reportedly the world’s largest evacuation effort.

On March 4, India’s Ministry of External Affairs set up a 24-hour war room in New Delhi, fully activating its diplomatic networks. Employing a ‘multi-modal’ transportation approach, the operation did not rely solely on air travel, ensuring smoother and safer evacuations.

Between March 1 and 7 alone, over 52,000 Indian citizens returned from the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with the number reaching over 67,000 by March 9. India utilized not only air travel but also road routes to provide safe transit for its people.

Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar secured permissions for ‘special corridors’ for Indian ships through talks with Gulf counterparts.

Meanwhile, Indian embassies tracked citizens through the ‘Pravasi Bharatiya’ portal, prioritizing evacuations efficiently.

US and Western Powers’ Task Force Strategy

The United States established a ‘State Department Task Force’ to protect nearly one million US citizens in the Middle East, taking stringent measures. Former President Trump issued directives urging immediate evacuation or safe sheltering, and charter flights were arranged from Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

By mid-March, more than 28,000 Americans received direct assistance, and over 43,000 were relocated to safer destinations.

European countries collectively activated the ‘EU Civil Protection Mechanism.’ France evacuated 180 citizens from Abu Dhabi and 205 from Israel promptly. The UK repatriated 4,000 out of 130,000 registered citizens from Oman via safe transit routes.

Italy evacuated over 25,000 citizens using land routes through Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar.

Key evacuation hubs were established in Muscat (Oman), Amman (Jordan), and Sharm El-Sheikh (Egypt) by the US and European countries.

The Netherlands successfully evacuated more than 75 citizens via bus from UAE to Oman, then through Hurghada in Egypt, before flying to Amsterdam. Embassies from involved countries deployed ‘Rapid Consular Support Teams’ to facilitate these operations.

Struggles of Southeast Asian Countries in Citizen Management

Countries such as the Philippines, Pakistan, Indonesia, and Bangladesh faced economic and technical challenges while trying to evacuate millions of citizens simultaneously.

The Philippines managed to evacuate 1,416 out of over 2 million citizens. Indonesia airlifted 10,060 pilgrims from Jeddah to Jakarta via special flights.

Pakistan’s situation is complex due to proximity to Iran; it managed to repatriate 792 citizens via Azerbaijan.

Malaysia evacuated 431, South Korea over 500 citizens from the UAE through chartered flights. Thailand repatriated 292 citizens via routes through Turkey.

Oman and Qatar’s Humanitarian Corridors

Oman and Qatar set outstanding examples of humanity in this conflict.

With UAE and Saudi airspaces becoming unsafe, Oman opened its land and air routes for foreign citizen evacuation.

Thousands of foreigners in the UAE were escorted across the Oman border by bus, from where flights to safety were organized.

Qatar utilized its modern airports and large aircraft for emergency evacuations, negotiating with conflicting parties to secure a ‘humanitarian corridor,’ which facilitated the release of stranded passengers at airports.

The deployment of military aircraft by Poland and Singapore to evacuate their citizens further underscores the seriousness of the war.

Nepal’s Situation and Preparedness

According to the latest Ministry of Foreign Affairs data, about 1,729,288 Nepalis are residing in Gulf and conflict-affected countries. Including undocumented individuals, this figure could approach 2 million.

Previously there were six Nepalis in Iran; now four more have contacted authorities, making a total of 10, all of whom are safe and registered to return via Indian ships.

The concentration of Nepali workers is substantial, particularly around 700,000 in the UAE, 384,865 in Saudi Arabia, and 357,913 in Qatar.

Additionally, there are approximately 175,000 Nepalis in Kuwait, 30,000 in Iraq, 28,000 in Bahrain, and 25,000 in Oman. Smaller populations reside in Cyprus (17,000), Israel (around 6,500), Lebanon (1,500), and Egypt (500).

The Government has suspended labor approvals, NOCs, and demand letter certifications for these countries. However, on Chaitra 4, the Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security decided to reopen approvals for seven Gulf countries.

The Nepali government has designated the safety of Nepalis abroad a high priority, closely monitoring ongoing developments.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs formed an ‘Emergency Response Team’ (ERT) led by Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, including representatives from Home, Finance, Law, Culture and Tourism, Civil Aviation, Education, Labor, Foreign Employment, and other departments.

The ERT issues daily ‘Situation Analysis Reports’ to 10 embassies and missions in conflict zones. A 24-hour ‘Emergency Control Room’ has been established at the Ministry.

An online portal for Nepali citizens seeking relief and evacuation has been developed, with 81,100 registered as of Friday.

The government arranged evacuation routes via Saudi Arabia from Kuwait and Qatar, facilitating road transport to Saudi Arabia and air travel from Saudi Arabia to Nepal.

Embassies have been offering voluntary repatriation services at their own expense.

Currently, flights are suspended from Iraq, Kuwait, and Bahrain; Qatar and UAE flights are partially open, while Riyadh, Dammam, and Oman air routes are fully operational.

About 1,000 Nepalis have already returned home through various arrangements. Some received embassy assistance, while others were repatriated through government agency coordination.

Nepal Airlines Corporation and Himalaya Airlines have been instructed to seek permission to conduct rescue flights to affected countries; however, passengers are required to pay airfare.

‘Rapid Response Task Force’ has been established to coordinate emergency assistance among Nepali missions in West Asia and Africa, the Non-Resident Nepali Association, the National Coordination Council, and Nepali communities.

Foreign Minister Balananda Sharma emphasized that the government assigns the highest priority to Nepali citizen safety and is prepared to make all necessary efforts for evacuation, including chartering vessels if needed.

6 Chaitra, Kathmandu – A three-night suspension of cargo vehicle operations has been imposed on the Narayanghat–Butwal road section starting today.

The Western Project Office has issued a notice stating that from Friday to Sunday, cargo vehicle movement will be banned between 7 PM and 5 AM on the Dumkibas–Daunne–Bardghat stretch.

The office reported that due to rainfall today, the roads have become slippery, causing vehicles to skid and get stuck. According to the project office, vehicles headed towards Bardghat will be stopped at Triveni Chowk. However, emergency service vehicles will be allowed to operate.