Kathmandu, March 1: The Nepalese government reported on Sunday that more than 1.7 million Nepalese citizens are currently living in 12 countries across the Middle East. Concerns for their safety have escalated amid ongoing conflicts between the United States and Iran.
Tensions in the region have intensified following Iran’s retaliatory actions against Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Bahrain in response to joint attacks from the U.S. and Israel. A significant number of Nepalese migrant workers are employed in these Gulf nations, and their remittances are crucial for Nepal’s economy.
During a press conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Joint Secretary Ram Kaji Khadka stated that a total of 1,729,288 Nepalese citizens are legally residing in these 12 countries. The distribution includes approximately 700,000 in the UAE, 384,865 in Saudi Arabia, 175,000 in Kuwait, 30,000 in Iraq, 28,000 in Bahrain, 25,000 in Oman, 17,000 in Cyprus, 6,500 in Israel, 1,500 in Lebanon, 500 in Egypt, and 6 in Iran.
Khadka noted that out of the 10 Nepalese citizens in Iran, four have already returned to Nepal, while the remaining six are preparing to leave the country.
He emphasized that ensuring the safety of Nepalese citizens in the Middle East is the government’s top priority. So far, there have been no reports of any Nepalese casualties.
The government has issued a travel advisory for Nepalese citizens in the region, urging them to stay indoors and remain vigilant. Additionally, a WhatsApp coordination group has been established, involving officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Nepalese embassies in West Asia.
Ministry officials indicated that if the situation worsens, evacuation arrangements will be coordinated with neighboring countries. Last June, during a 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran, India successfully evacuated nine Nepalese citizens from Iran, where Nepal does not have an embassy.
Khadka mentioned that the Nepalese government is also preparing to coordinate with international organizations, particularly the International Organization for Migration (IOM), to ensure effective rescue and management operations if necessary.
Nepal has expressed deep concern over the situation in the Middle East, urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid escalating tensions, and ensure the safety of civilians. The government has emphasized the importance of resolving differences through diplomacy and dialogue.
My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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