Kathmandu: In response to the escalating tensions in West Asian nations, Nepal has issued a travel advisory for its residents in Israel and Iran.

Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned Nepali citizens to be very cautious in a two-page alert released late Wednesday night. It has urged Nepalis living in Israel and Iran to abide by local safety advice issued by their host governments and to remain home except for necessary travel.

Additionally, it has recommended Nepali people living in war-torn nations stay in constant communication with the Nepali community and the Nepali Embassy in Tel Aviv, as well as frequently monitor security bulletins from Israeli and Iranian authorities.

In order to facilitate monitoring and emergency aid, the ministry has advised those residing in war-torn nations to register their information online using a link posted on the websites of the Nepali Embassy, the Department of Consular Services, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“For those currently in Nepal and planning to travel to Israel, Iran, or other Middle East countries for any purposes, the government has strongly advised against such travel until the situation stabilizes,” the notice said.

The ministry has said that the government is keeping a careful eye on the situation and would take the required precautions to ensure the safety of Nepali people in the area, who are presently reported to be safe.
The ministry said that any Nepali person who wants to voluntarily return home may have to pass via a third country since flight routes into and out of Israel and Iran may be blocked.

“In such cases, they are advised to obtain a transit visa in advance, and the government will coordinate efforts to facilitate safe return where possible,” it said.

“Further updates and guidance will be made available through official channels, including the ministry’s website: www.mofa.gov.np,” the statement said.

The Nepali Embassy in Tel Aviv began gathering information on Nepali nationals living in Israel and Iran who want to return home earlier on Wednesday.

“In view of the recent developments in Israel, the embassy has initiated the process of collecting information to facilitate rescue, repatriation and other necessary support for Nepali citizens,” the embassy tweeted on Wednesday. “Interested individuals are requested to register.”

Up to 5,500 Nepalis reside and work in Israel, which is regarded as a profitable country for foreign workers. According to official records, five Nepalese nationals are incarcerated and eleven are living and working in Iran.

Israel launched a preemptive attack on Iran on June 13. Israel’s involvement in Iran prompted Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz to declare a national emergency.

“A special state of emergency will be imposed on the home front throughout the entire State of Israel,” Katz stated, referring to the extraordinary order he issued.

Israel had struck dozens of sites around Iran connected to the nuclear program and other military installations on the first day of the strike. Operation Rising Lion was the name of the Israeli Air Force-led strike.

Iran has enough enriched uranium to make several bombs in a matter of days, according to the Israeli Defense Force, and it must take action to stop this “imminent threat.”