The BRICS TimesNepal’s top diplomat in Israel, Dhan Prasad Pandit, confirmed to Republica that Bipin Joshi’s remains were being moved to Tel Aviv late Monday night.
Amid steady progress at the Donald Trump–led Middle East peace summit, optimism was present. This included the release of 20 captives from Gaza. However, a moment of profound heartbreak overshadowed the good news. Bipin Joshi was a Nepali student. Hamas had kidnapped him during the 2023 attacks. His remains were finally delivered to Israeli authorities. This followed more than two years of agonizing uncertainty.
Nepal’s Ambassador to Israel, Dhan Prasad Pandit, confirmed the details to Republica. He stated that Joshi’s body was being transported to Tel Aviv late Monday. The Israeli military released a statement. It said Joshi was among four hostages. Their remains were returned by Hamas. This return was part of current humanitarian negotiations.
Bipin Joshi: A Young Student’s Dream Tragically Ended
Joshi was 23 years old at the time of the incident. He had traveled to Israel with high aspirations. He hoped to master modern farming methods. He was staying at Kibbutz Alumim, close to the volatile Gaza border. He was one of 17 Nepali students there. They had come seeking education and training in Israeli agriculture.
On October 7, 2023, Hamas militants launched an attack on the kibbutz. Ten of Joshi’s classmates were killed. A chilling photograph later emerged. It showed the group taking shelter with Thai workers. This happened just moments before the violent assault.
Israeli military spokesman Effie Defrin gave an update. He said Joshi’s remains will undergo DNA verification. After that, they will be sent back to Nepal. Funeral services are expected to take place in Israel. The Nepali embassy is closely coordinating the arrangements.
Family Finally Finds Painful Closure After Long Wait
The news brought a painful conclusion to a two-year ordeal. This was for Joshi’s family in western Nepal. His younger sister, Pushpa Joshi, is just 17. She made multiple trips to Kathmandu. She sought updates from government officials. The family traveled to Israel in August. They met President Isaac Herzog. They also attended vigils at Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square. They held up Bipin’s photo with pictures of other captives.
A video briefly revived their hopes in late 2023. It showed Joshi alive in Hamas captivity. In the video, circulated online, he identified himself as Nepali. He also mentioned his arrival in Israel. It was only 25 days before the conflict started. Sadly, no other proof of life was ever shared.
Joshi would have celebrated his 25th birthday on October 26.
