Memorial Ceremony Held in Kathmandu to Honor Victims of October 7, 2023 Hamas Terrorist Attack in Israel

EDUCAST, A solemn memorial ceremony was held in Kathmandu today to honor the victims of the October 7, 2023 Hamas terrorist attack in Israel, one of the darkest tragedies in recent global history. The assault claimed the lives of more than 1,200 innocent Israelis and foreign nationals, including 11 Nepali students who were in Israel under an agricultural training program.

Among the Nepali victims was Mr. Bipin Joshi, who had been abducted alive on that day. His fate remained uncertain for nearly two years until it was recently confirmed that he had been killed in captivity. His remains were repatriated to Kanchanpur, Nepal, through an initiative brokered by former U.S. President Donald Trump.

The memorial program brought together senior government officials, diplomats, media representatives, and dignitaries to pay tribute to the victims and express solidarity with their families, as well as with the people of Israel and Nepal.

The ceremony began with the screening of raw footage revealing the extent of the atrocities committed by Hamas and other terror groups on October 7, including mass murders, kidnappings, and other acts of brutality that constitute war crimes. Candles were lit in memory of the victims, followed by a moment of silence honoring the deceased.

Ms. Janan Bebar, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Israel, delivered a poignant presentation reflecting on the human cost of the tragedy. She recounted the abduction and execution of Bipin Joshi, shared insights from the Dinnah Report on sexual violence and torture, and recalled the massacre at the Nova Music Festival. She emphasized the deliberate targeting of children, elderly citizens, and entire communities, highlighting the ongoing trauma faced by survivors and their families.

Mr. Basant Raj Bist, representing the family of late Dipesh Raj Bist, shared a deeply personal message of grief and resilience, while Mr. Himanchal Kattel, a Nepali survivor, recounted his harrowing experience from that fateful day. Mr. Arjun Hardas, representative of the American Jewish Committee (AJC) India, also addressed the gathering, stressing the global importance of unity against terrorism.

H.E. Ambassador Shmulik Arie Bass, Ambassador of Israel to Nepal, expressed his heartfelt condolences and solidarity, stating,

“The brutal attack has permanently linked the fates of our peoples. The Government of Israel remains committed to stand by the victims’ families.”

Hon. Justice Sunil Kumar Pokharel, Justice of the Supreme Court of Nepal and chief guest of the event, remarked,

“Peace has no alternative. I hope the recent peace accord will bring lasting peace in the region and justice may prevail for the victims.”

The memorial also featured a photo exhibition showcasing works by several artists, including renowned Israeli photographer Mr. Zivi Cohen, whose visuals powerfully captured the human toll of the October 7 tragedy.

The ceremony concluded with a reaffirmation of solidarity, compassion, and remembrance, emphasizing the global need to stand united against terrorism in all its forms.