How to Prevent Long-Term Mental Health Issues After a Disaster
The devastating floods in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers have left many people mourning the loss of family members, relatives, and homes. Even now, many survivors have not fully recovered from the psychological trauma caused by these events. While there is a necessity to gradually return to normal life, experts have noted that some individuals are experiencing an increasing trend of negative thoughts day by day.
Psychiatrists explain that feelings of despair can be a normal reaction to a major disaster and sudden grief. However, if individuals do not overcome these feelings in time, serious mental health conditions may develop. In this context, Pratiksha Khanal interviewed psychiatrist Dr. Rachana Sharma Basnet to discuss what measures disaster survivors can take to avoid long-term psychological problems.
The Saudi Arabia-led coalition has announced preparations to carry out a special military operation in Sanaa, the capital controlled by Houthi rebels in Yemen. Coalition spokesperson Turki Al-Maliki warned civilians in the area to move to secure locations. In a statement posted on the social media platform X, he emphasized the necessity of the special military action in the region. Further details regarding the operation are yet to be released.
Meanwhile, Houthi rebels have been conducting continuous drone and missile attacks targeting Saudi Arabia. A few days ago, an attack by the Houthis on Riyadh’s international airport resulted in several casualties. Today, Saudi authorities reported successfully intercepting and downing three drones over Riyadh’s northern area.
Nepal secured a commanding 113-run victory over Oman in the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 series, marking their second consecutive win. Batting first, Nepal posted a competitive total of 263 runs for 8 wickets in 50 overs, with Rohit Paudel contributing 61 runs and Karan KC adding 40 runs. Oman was bowled out for 150 runs in 40 overs, with Nandan Yadav and captain Sandeep Lamichhane each claiming 3 wickets. (27 Ashoj, Kathmandu)
Thanks to an outstanding bowling performance, Nepal maintained their winning streak in the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 series held in Oman. The match took place on Tuesday at Al Amerat Cricket Ground Ministry Turf 1, where Nepal defeated Oman by 113 runs. Pursuing a target of 264, Oman was dismissed for just 150 runs in 40 overs. Oman’s captain, Vinayak Shukla, top-scored with 77 runs.
For Nepal, Nandan Yadav took 3 wickets conceding just 12 runs in 6 overs, while captain Sandeep Lamichhane also claimed 3 wickets giving away 28 runs in 9 overs. Deependra Singh Airee took 2 wickets, and Karan KC along with Lalit Rajbanshi picked up 1 wicket each. Nepal is scheduled to face Canada in their next match on Saturday.
What steps must individuals who have lost their homes in the floods take to receive monthly relief? Following the devastating floods in the Bhote Koshi and lower Trishuli rivers in the past Bhadra month, the government has initiated monthly financial assistance for the affected individuals. This relief amount can be accessed through a bank account. However, specific procedures must be followed to avail this support.
What is the required procedure? On this subject, Manika Bishwakarma conducted an interview with Krishna Prasad Humagain, the Assistant Chief District Officer of Nuwakot district, for ‘BBC Hatmelu.’
Following the resurgence of conflict in Yemen in July 2026, the Iran-backed Houthi rebels have intensified hundreds of attacks targeting Saudi Arabia. A recent devastating assault on Riyadh’s main international airport resulted in 13 fatalities and over 300 injuries. In the absence of direct U.S. military support, Saudi Arabia is seeking diplomatic and security partnerships with France, the United Kingdom, Turkey, and Pakistan. The attack, which also involved an American citizen, has put Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s ambitious “Vision 2030” plan—aimed at transforming Saudi Arabia into a global economic and financial hub—under intense pressure. Globally, questions have arisen over why the United States is hesitant to provide direct assistance to Saudi Arabia amid these ongoing attacks.
1. Historical Relations and Trust Erosion The historic alliance between the United States and Saudi Arabia was established in 1945 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt met with the Kingdom’s founder, King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud, forging a foundational “security for oil” partnership. This relationship deepened after the 1979 Iranian Islamic Revolution, with the U.S. defending Saudi Arabia during the 1990 Kuwait crisis. Nonetheless, the bilateral ties have experienced fluctuations over the years — from the 1973 oil embargo to Saudi nationals’ involvement in the September 11 attacks, straining trust. More recently, some actions by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, including the Qatar blockade and efforts to reduce American influence, especially during former President Donald Trump’s second term, have unsettled Washington. The 2021 abrupt U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan and reduced support for Egypt’s Hosni Mubarak government underscored to Riyadh that American backing may not be guaranteed indefinitely.
2. Midterm Elections and Domestic Political Pressures Geopolitical relationships are largely driven by national interests. The U.S. has become the world’s largest oil producer thanks to massive shale oil output, drastically reducing its dependence on Middle Eastern oil imports. On the domestic front, as the country prepares for its midterm elections, American voters are increasingly dissatisfied with inflation and rising fuel prices. Middle East expert Jasmin Al-Gamal notes that the American public struggles to understand why their taxes and lives should be linked to military involvement in Middle Eastern conflicts. Consequently, President Trump seeks to avoid risky military actions ahead of the elections.
3. Trump’s Unpredictable Approach and Diplomacy with the Houthis Saudi Arabia anticipated consistent support from the U.S., but this expectation was unmet. Despite signing a new defense agreement and obtaining “Major Non-NATO Ally” status last year, American assistance during crises has fallen short. Prince Mohammed reportedly called President Trump urging action against the Houthis, but Trump chose to refrain from military intervention. Instead, Washington pursued negotiations with the Houthis through Oman, as their attacks remain focused on Saudi Arabia, ensuring the safety of American vessels in the Red Sea. Former U.S. ambassador to Saudi Arabia Michael Ratney described Trump’s approach as highly unpredictable. Facing these challenges alone, Saudi Arabia has turned to France, the UK, Turkey, and Pakistan for diplomatic alternatives. France has agreed to send military personnel and resources, the UK is providing aerial refueling capabilities, while over 100 U.S. military advisors remain deployed in the region for intelligence and targeting assistance covertly.
4. The Mecca Defense Agreement and Regional Options As the crisis deepens, Riyadh has reactivated its historic “Mecca Defense Agreement” with Turkey and Pakistan. Following an emergency summit, a trilateral security framework was established, though its immediate impact is uncertain. Analyst Allison Miner highlights significant doubts about Saudi Arabia’s capability to completely neutralize Houthi forces across Yemen’s territory. The Biden administration also acknowledges the impossibility of fully halting Houthi attacks, viewing the situation largely as an internal Saudi matter.
5. Complications in Normalizing Relations with Israel Since Trump’s first term, Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in normalizing ties with Israel under the Abraham Accords framework. Israel, in turn, has sought to use its security capabilities in the UAE to help protect Saudi Arabia from Houthi attacks and bolster its own strategic position. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has shown enthusiasm for providing defense and military assistance to Riyadh, expecting Saudi Arabia to join the Abraham Accords in return. However, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has vehemently opposed such overt normalization. Public acceptance of Israel’s role risks severe backlash within the Islamic world and from the Saudi populace, potentially damaging Riyadh’s standing and complicating the kingdom’s diplomatic landscape further.
The Rastriya Swatantra Party (Raswapa) spokesperson Jagdish Kharel has announced that the party has initiated an internal investigation concerning the news reports and publicly circulated audio materials related to the elected member of parliament Khagendra Sunar.
“The party’s disciplinary committee has begun an inquiry into the audio in question,” said Kharel. “Party Chairperson Ravi Lamichhane has instructed that the investigation be conducted independently.”
The audio accusing MP Sunar is currently a matter of public debate, however, there has yet to be independent verification confirming whether the voice in the audio is his.
Sunar has described the audio as “false, created with the assistance of AI and technology as propaganda.”
In a video he released on Facebook on Tuesday, he stated, “I earnestly request both the party and government to thoroughly investigate all the allegations and questions raised against me.”
What is the police response?
Police have reported that no formal complaint regarding the controversial audio has been registered with their department as of now.
Deputy spokesperson of Nepal Police, Deepshamsher Jabara, said, “We have no information about any complaint being filed on this matter.”
He added, “Without a complaint from the alleged victim, police intervention is not possible. Procedures will only progress once a formal complaint is received.”
As Sunar is affiliated with Raswapa, currently part of the government, public attention is focused on how the government will handle the situation.
The party has stated, “We will provide full cooperation from the party side during any investigations conducted by state authorities.”
In a statement released Tuesday morning, party General Secretary Bipinkumar Acharya said, “It is important to take note of the seriousness of the matters made public, and we trust that a prompt, independent, impartial, and fact-based investigation will be carried out by the relevant state authorities.”
Spokesperson Kharel mentioned that informal discussions are ongoing with government officials regarding the matter.
However, he clarified, “Formally, the roles of the party and government are separate. The party will assist the government where necessary.”
Ban on representing the party in official events
Following the initiation of internal investigation, Raswapa has instructed Khagendra Sunar not to participate in any formal events in his capacity as a public official.
General Secretary Acharya described the matter as serious and sensitive in the statement.
“The allegations made in the media involve language that undermines the dignity and respect of women, as well as serious issues such as undue pressure, threats, and suspicious financial transactions,” the statement read.
“Raswapa stands firmly for law and order, good governance, and civic accountability and will not treat such allegations against its members or representatives lightly.”
Background of Khagendra Sunar
Image Source, FB/Khagendra Sunar
Khagendra Sunar was elected from Banke Constituency No. 3 as the Rastriya Swatantra Party (Raswapa) candidate in the 2082 House of Representatives election and is known as an activist for Dalit rights.
He has a background in journalism and has attracted considerable attention and controversy due to his aggressive style and presentation.
Recently, he was accused of disrespectful behavior towards police leadership during a parliamentary committee meeting. Prior to this, he also drew controversy for statements related to contempt of court.
Following the Janajati Shakti (JNG) movement, there were rumors that the government led by Sushila Karki intended to appoint him as a minister, but previous controversies reportedly compelled Prime Minister Karki to withdraw.
Why are discipline issues repeatedly surfacing in Raswapa?
The ruling party Raswapa’s officials and MPs have frequently faced controversies regarding their conduct. Representatives and leaders of this party have been involved in various instances of financial irregularities, misuse of position, controversial statements, and legal challenges.
Party Chairperson Ravi Lamichhane and Home Minister Sudhan Gurung have also often been seen embroiled in controversies.
In the previous House of Representatives, MP Dhakakumar Shrestha was removed from his parliamentary seat due to an audio-related controversy after party disciplinary action.
Spokesperson Kharel has acknowledged that occasional internal problems are natural in a large party.
“Because the party is large, some incidents will occur, but it is wrong and undesirable, and we recognize this,” he said.
“We are prioritizing training as a solution and actively undertaking it. Whomever takes on responsibilities—be it within the party, parliament, or government—must be accountable, and we are working on this,” he added. “However, some incidents suggest our efforts are still insufficient.”
General Secretary Acharya has also pledged that no one violating laws or codes of conduct will receive political protection.
“Based on conclusions from independent state investigations and the party’s internal inquiry, the party will take further action according to laws and regulations,” Acharya stated in Tuesday’s release.
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A powerful earthquake in Panama caused damage to homes, schools, hospitals, roads, and public infrastructure, prompting the declaration of a state of emergency to organize relief and rescue operations. On Tuesday morning, the National Center for Seismology reported another earthquake of magnitude 6.1 in Panama. This follows 147 aftershocks since Friday’s 7.7 magnitude quake, some measuring as high as 6.1 and 6.6 in magnitude. The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 39 kilometers northwest of Tonosi in Los Santos province.
The greatest damage occurred in the southern coastal Coclé province, with the city of Panama also sustaining damage. Preliminary reports indicate that a few people suffered minor injuries. President José Raúl Mulino has directed the formation of a commission to coordinate relief efforts, manage resources, and address the needs of affected communities. The government has established donation collection centers and arranged for patients to be evacuated from hospitals in the impacted areas for treatment.
Following the earthquake, services on two metro lines were suspended, and the country’s main international airport was temporarily closed as a precaution before reopening. The US Embassy issued warnings about possible aftershocks and tsunami risks across nine countries in Central and South America. Later, the US Tsunami Warning System confirmed that there is no danger.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed that five fighters affiliated with Hamas and Islamic Jihad were killed in southern Gaza over the past two days. According to the IDF, an airstrike conducted in Khan Yunis targeted three Islamic Jihad fighters, including a deputy commander.
The Israeli military stated that the individuals were targeted while allegedly planning an attack against Israeli soldiers. Meanwhile, another airstrike in southern Gaza killed two members of the Nukhba Force of Hamas’ military wing, the Rafah Brigade. Gaza health officials confirmed that five people have died in Israeli attacks in the past 24 hours.
Rohit Paudel scored 61 runs while Karan KC contributed an aggressive 40, helping Nepal set a target of 264 runs for Oman. At Al Amerat Cricket Ground Ministry Turf 1, Nepal batted first and posted 263 runs for the loss of 8 wickets in 50 overs.
October 14, Kathmandu – Thanks to Rohit Paudel’s half-century and Karan KC’s aggressive finishing, Nepal set a challenging target of 264 runs for Oman in the second One Day International (ODI) of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2. After winning the toss, Nepal chose to bat first. Rohit scored 61 runs off 67 balls, including 3 fours and 1 six.
Karan KC played a crucial, attacking innings towards the end, scoring 40 runs off just 16 balls. He struck three consecutive sixes off Hassan Shah in the 49th over and followed up with another six off Shah Faisal in the final over. Arjun Kamal contributed 40 runs, while Basir Ahmad and Ishan Pande each scored 37. Dipendra Singh Airey added 22 runs.
For Oman, Shah Faisal, Shakeel Ahmed, and Karan Sonavala took two wickets each, and Hassan Shah claimed one wicket. In the ICC World Cup League 2 points table, Nepal occupies sixth place with 26 points from 33 matches, Oman is fourth with 33 points from 29 matches, and Canada sits seventh with 25 points from 34 games.
After the Supreme Court issued an interim order halting the government’s decision to make the National Identity Card (NIC) mandatory for banking services and directed the enactment of a data protection law, significant questions have arisen regarding the ongoing NIC policy. Nepal Rastra Bank had previously instructed banks and financial institutions to update the NIC details of existing account holders by the month of Ashwin. However, last week, a bench comprising Justices Sapana Malla and Meghraj Pokharel canceled this directive, issuing a mandate that no individual should be denied banking services due to lack of a National ID.
The Supreme Court has instructed that until the NIC is obtained, banks may provide services based on other identity documents such as citizenship certificates. Additionally, the Court directed the government to formulate legislation ensuring the security and privacy of data collected during the NIC registration process. This ruling has emerged amid government efforts to integrate the NIC with public services under a ‘single identity card policy,’ encompassing citizenship, banking, healthcare, education, and social security sectors. Government officials consulting legal experts suggest that this decision could impact the implementation of biometric-enabled identity cards.
In Ashad 2081 BS, the government had published a gazette notice mandating the NIC for banking, social security, and various other sectors. The notification exempted children, individuals unable to care for themselves, vulnerable or disabled persons, and citizens over 90 years old from this requirement. The banking system was structured to require an electronic record of the NIC to open accounts or verify customer identity via NIC number. By the end of Ashad this year, all banks were issued a circular demanding self-declaration of whether account holders possessed an NIC.
Four young men were killed in a landmine explosion near the Line of Control (LoC) in the Pakistan-administered Kashmir region. Pakistan’s Information Department has claimed that the explosive device was placed by India, resulting in the deaths of the four youths.
According to a statement issued Monday evening by the Information Department, the incident occurred in the village of Mahendla Madarpur, close to the LoC. Preliminary information indicates that the four men had gone to repair a drinking water pipeline near their village when the powerful explosion occurred, killing them instantly at the scene.
Sardar Wahid Khan, Commissioner of the Pooch Division, accused the Indian Army of planting the landmines in the forest area the youths were walking through. There has been no official response from India regarding the incident so far.
In Nepal, floods and landslides often cause severe damage during the monsoon season. These natural disasters have a significant impact on property and human lives. However, is it possible to identify the risks before a landslide causes harm? According to experts, by paying attention to certain signs around your living area, you can protect yourself from landslide hazards.
Editorial Summary: Following President Donald Trump’s decision to exempt Russian diesel imports from sanctions, significant internal discord and a political crisis have erupted within the Republican Party. Mere weeks after a new sanctions bill against Russia was passed, Trump negotiated an agreement with Vladimir Putin aimed at curbing soaring fuel prices. Prominent Republican lawmakers including Brian Fitzpatrick, Tom Tillis, Michael McCaul, Susan Collins, and Lisa Murkowski have openly opposed this deal. According to a Pew Research Center survey, 44% of voters view the forthcoming election as a referendum against Trump, with only 19% expressing support for him.
October 14, Kathmandu — As the US midterm elections approach, President Donald Trump’s controversial “diesel deal” with Russian President Vladimir Putin has triggered severe internal conflicts and a political crisis within the Republican Party. Coming soon after the passage of a new bill imposing sanctions on Russia, Trump’s announcement of exemptions on Russian diesel imports has placed Republican lawmakers and candidates in a precarious position.
The backdrop to this agreement lies in Trump’s effort to alleviate the burden felt by American consumers facing escalating fuel costs, which had reached an average of $6.28 per gallon by October 11. To address this, Trump agreed to import diesel from Russia, marking a stark reversal from his previous policies. Last year, for example, Trump imposed a 25% additional tariff on India for purchasing Russian oil, and as recently as October 2, he reaffirmed commitments with G-7 leaders to maintain sanctions against Russia.
Following the deal, Trump publicly assigned blame for rising diesel prices to Ukraine, even suggesting that President Volodymyr Zelensky be removed from office. This move has intensified dissatisfaction and division within the Republican Party, complicating the efforts of GOP candidates striving to maintain a congressional majority. Currently, three factions have emerged within the party — staunch Trump supporters, vocal opponents, and those remaining neutral.
Republican Representative Brian Fitzpatrick has already pledged to bring a vote to Congress to halt the purchase of Russian oil. Influential lawmakers such as Tom Tillis, Michael McCaul, Susan Collins, and Lisa Murkowski have also vehemently criticized the deal. According to Tillis, removing sanctions without informing Congress could be deemed illegal. Even Trump ally Laura Loomer voiced opposition, arguing that the agreement economically benefits not only Russia but also Iran.
White House spokesperson Davis Ingle has defended Trump, stating that the president is focused on reducing American expenditures and refuting critics. Republican leader Ana Paulina Luna and Senate Whip John Barrasso have expressed support for Trump’s actions.
Potential Impact on Midterm Elections
Current polling ahead of November’s elections indicates troubling signs for the Republicans. The Pew Research Center’s recent survey shows that 44% of voters perceive this election as a referendum against Trump, in contrast to just 19% who support him. Furthermore, 63% of Americans have rejected Trump’s proposed $5,000 dividend checks, which would add $1.3 trillion in federal spending.
Ken Paxton, the Texas Senate candidate, acknowledged that fuel prices, looming conflict with Iran, and Trump’s controversial decisions have weakened his electoral standing. Trump’s “immature” strategy to lower fuel costs has increased pressure on Republican candidates in the electoral arena to remain accountable to the public.
In the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 in Oman, Nepal won the toss against Oman in their second match and elected to bat first. The game is taking place at Oman Cricket Academy Turf 1, where Nepal has included Sandeep Jora in place of Gulshan Jhakku in the playing XI. In the League 2 points table, Nepal occupies the sixth position with 26 points from 33 matches, while Oman stands fourth with 33 points from 29 matches. 25 Ashoj, Kathmandu.
During the second ODI match of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 series being held in Oman, Nepal won the toss against Oman. The game starting at 11:15 AM at Oman Cricket Academy Turf 1 saw Nepal captain Sandeep Lamichhane choose to bat first. Both teams defeated Canada in their opening matches. Nepal made one change to its lineup, bringing in Sandeep Jora for Gulshan Jhakku. On the League 2 points table, Nepal stands sixth with 26 points from 33 matches, while Oman holds the fourth position with 33 points from 29 matches. Nepal’s chances of reaching the fourth place are already over.
American actor RJ Mitte has died at the age of 34. He gained widespread popularity for his role as Walter White’s rebellious son in the drama series Breaking Bad. His representatives stated, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate advocate for disability rights, RJ Mitte.” He passed away in Texas, though the cause of death has not been disclosed.
Mitte, who lived with cerebral palsy, drew from his own life experiences to portray Walter White Jr. in the Emmy-winning drama series. He also won a Screen Actors Guild Award in 2014 for his performance. His representative, Shane Reilly, said, “Mitte brought authenticity to the role and created a platform for disability awareness.” He had also founded the Mitte Foundation to support philanthropic and community initiatives.
The Brownsville Police Department confirmed Mitte’s death, noting that the cause is still under investigation. Authorities stated there is no suspicion of foul play. Breaking Bad aired for five seasons from 2008 to 2013 and received 58 Primetime Emmy nominations.
In the series, Bryan Cranston portrayed a high school chemistry teacher in New Mexico who, after being diagnosed with cancer, turns to a life of crime to provide for his family. For much of the series, Walter Jr.’s character expresses his dissatisfaction in a mild manner.
RJ Mitte’s passing has deeply saddened many. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Aaron Paul, who played Jesse Pinkman, said, “We will miss you deeply.” Dean Norris, who played Walter White’s brother-in-law, wrote on social media, “RJ cared for not just my son, but for me as if we were young children on set.”
