Minister for Foreign Affairs Arzu Rana Deuba held a telephonic conversation with her Iranian counterpart Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, Thursday night, requesting for his initiatives for the safe release of Bipin Joshi, a Nepali citizen believed to be taken captive by Hamas.

“During the conversation, Minister Araghchi assured that he would raise the issue of Joshi's release with priority in the upcoming meeting with Hamas officials,” said the Foreign Ministry on Friday. “His assurance follows the ongoing process of captive release after the ceasefire between the Israeli government and Hamas.”

Ever since the ceasefire, Deuba has engaged in diplomatic talks with officials of Qatar and Egypt, both key mediators in the peace talks, urging them to take special initiatives to release Joshi, the ministry said.

Minister Deuba said Minister Araghchi promised to raise the issue of Bipin’s release during his upcoming meeting with Hamas officials. “I would like to thank Araghchi for his assurance and support,” she wrote on X.

Earlier, Deuba met with ambassadors of Israel, Egypt, Qatar, seeking their governments’ assistance in securing Joshi's freedom.

Also, Nepali Ambassador to Israel Dhan Prasad Pandit held a telephonic conversation with President of Israel Isaac Herzog two days ago, requesting similar assistance, according to the ministry.

Joshi was among those who were kidnapped during Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, which led to the killing of more than a thousand people, including 10 Nepalis.

Since then, the Government of Nepal has continued its diplomatic efforts for Joshi's release. Minister Deuba has continuously raised the issue at national and regional forums, including the United Nations, and through bilateral meetings for Joshi's safe release, the ministry said.