Red Cross to Retrieve Body of Hostage Returned by Hamas
Kathmandu, Nepal – October 20, 2025 – Teh Israeli army confirmed Sunday that the International Committee of the Red Cross is en route to recover the body of Bipin Joshi, a Nepalese citizen who was among the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Joshi’s remains were handed over to Nepalese authorities earlier today at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, following a period of captivity after the October 7th attacks.
The transfer marks the first confirmed return of a deceased hostage since the start of the conflict, raising both hopes and anxieties for the families of the over 200 individuals still held captive. The Israeli military stated the handover was facilitated through Qatari and egyptian mediation, and emphasized its continued efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages. nepal’s army formally received joshi’s coffin, marking a somber moment for the nation.
The October 7th incursion by Hamas into Israel triggered a large-scale military response and a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The attack resulted in the deaths of over 1,400 Israelis and the abduction of more than 200 peopel, including foreign nationals like Joshi. nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to secure the release of its citizens, with ten Nepalese nationals initially confirmed as hostages. Seven have now been accounted for – six returned alive and Joshi’s body repatriated.
The Red Cross’s role is crucial in verifying the identity of the remains and ensuring their dignified transfer to Nepal for final rites. The association operates under strict neutrality principles,acting as an impartial intermediary in conflict zones. The Israeli government has vowed to continue its military operations in Gaza until hamas is dismantled and all hostages are returned.
