Kathmandu: The Indian government has agreed to rescue Nepali citizens stranded in Iran due to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, following a formal request from the Government of Nepal.

Nepal’s Foreign Minister Dr. Arju Rana Deuba confirmed that she had requested support from the Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, seeking assistance in evacuating Nepalis while India rescues its own citizens from Iran.

“We also have a small number of Nepali citizens in Iran,” said Minister Rana. “I had requested the Indian government to include Nepalis in their rescue operation. We are now awaiting their cooperation.”

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there are currently 16 Nepali nationals in Iran, including five individuals detained for violating immigration laws. Efforts are ongoing to secure their release and safe repatriation.

Following India's acceptance of Nepal’s request, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised all Nepalis in Iran to contact the Indian Embassy in Tehran for assistance. The Indian Embassy has also issued a notice, inviting Nepali and Sri Lankan citizens seeking evacuation to get in touch immediately.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri and DCM Rakhi Mayuri from the Indian Embassy in Iran are coordinating the evacuation efforts.

The Nepalese government has also directed its Ambassador to India, Dr. Shankar Sharma, to facilitate further coordination with Indian authorities to ensure the safe return of Nepali nationals amid the volatile regional situation.