Minister for Foreign Affairs Shishir Khanal has stated that the government is taking the situation of Nepali citizens affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East very seriously.
Speaking to journalists in Kathmandu, he said the ministry is currently collecting data on Nepalis residing in the affected areas. “So far, more than 88,000 Nepalis have registered their details. In recent days, the number of emergency calls has decreased. The government is coordinating with various agencies to ensure immediate rescue and support if needed,” he said.
He also noted that flights to the Middle East have been made more accessible through Nepal Airlines, with regular flights to Dubai already in operation. Efforts are underway to arrange additional flights to destinations including Saudi Arabia. The ministry remains in contact with distressed Nepalis through a 24-hour hotline.
Due to the conflict, supply systems, employment, and the economy have been affected. In response, the government has formed a task force to assess the impact.
Minister Khanal added that to prevent the burden of rising petroleum prices from affecting the public, the government has introduced measures to reduce consumption. These include declaring two days of public holidays and delaying the start of the academic session in schools.
