The stark image of a lone figure, a Nepali security guard, standing amidst the chaos of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, highlights a previously unseen dimension of Nepal’s foreign policy. With over 12,000 Nepalese citizens working across the Middle East – primarily in Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and increasingly, Israel and Iran – the country’s diplomatic and protective footprint is expanding with unprecedented speed and complexity. This burgeoning engagement, rooted in historical migration patterns and economic necessity, carries significant implications for regional stability, straining traditional alliances, and demanding a radical reassessment of Kathmandu’s strategic priorities. The sheer scale of the Nepali diaspora in volatile regions presents a demonstrable, if largely unacknowledged, vulnerability, demanding immediate attention from policymakers.
The history of Nepali migration to the Gulf states stretches back to the 1970s, primarily driven by economic hardship and a lack of opportunities at home. Initially, the labor force focused on sectors like construction and domestic service. More recently, driven by remittances and the demands of the global economy, Nepali workers have been drawn to security and logistics roles, expanding their presence into countries experiencing heightened geopolitical tension. A critical element of this dynamic is the “Bhattarai consensus” – a historical policy of prioritizing bilateral relationships based on economic considerations, often overlooking broader strategic implications. This approach, while effective in generating vital income for Nepal, has created a dependent relationship and, crucially, an absence of robust safeguards for its citizens operating in increasingly unstable environments.
The recent escalation of conflict in Israel and Gaza has fundamentally altered the landscape. The government of Nepal has been navigating a delicate diplomatic tightrope, balancing traditional partnerships with India and China alongside an urgent humanitarian responsibility to protect its vulnerable citizens. The most immediate focus has been on securing the safe return of Nepali nationals from Israel, a process complicated by the ongoing conflict and the limitations imposed by the Israeli government. As Dr. Bishowparaj Sharma, a specialist in South Asian security at the Kathmandu Policy Forum, notes, “Nepal’s historical reluctance to take a strong stance on international conflicts, prioritizing neutrality, is being challenged by the sheer number of its citizens directly impacted. The government's primary imperative is now undeniably their protection.” Efforts are underway with the assistance of the Nepalese embassy in Israel and coordination with regional partners, including Qatar, to establish evacuation corridors and facilitate repatriation.
The situation in Iran presents a particularly complex challenge. While the Nepali government maintains diplomatic relations with Tehran, the imposition of sanctions and the ongoing regional instability have created a challenging environment for its citizens. The issuance of a travel advisory, urging Nepali nationals to avoid travel to Iran, reflects a measured approach, acknowledging the risks but also recognizing the economic realities that drive migration. Recent reports, compiled by investigative journalists tracking Nepali workers in the region, suggest that many Nepalis remain in Iran, often due to contractual obligations and a lack of readily available repatriation options. “The bureaucracy involved in repatriation is a significant barrier,” explains Rohan Thapa, a researcher with the Himalayan Policy Institute. “The Nepali government needs to proactively establish clear protocols and logistical support to ensure the swift and safe return of its citizens in crisis situations.”
Data from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicates that approximately 600 Nepalese workers were deployed to Israel in 2023, a figure projected to increase substantially in the coming years as construction and logistics sectors experience sustained demand. Furthermore, a growing number, estimated at several hundred, are seeking employment in Iran, drawn by potentially higher wages and a relatively less restrictive environment – a trend that requires intense monitoring. The “power word” in this evolving scenario is “vulnerability.” Nepal’s increasingly exposed position within volatile geopolitical arenas highlights its vulnerability, demanding a decisive shift in foreign policy priorities.
Looking ahead, the short-term outlook involves continued efforts to evacuate Nepali nationals from Israel and Iran, alongside ongoing diplomatic engagement to secure their welfare. In the medium-term (5-10 years), the Nepali government needs to develop a comprehensive strategy for managing its diaspora, including provisions for consular support, crisis response protocols, and potentially, facilitating skill transfer programs to bolster the nation's economy. However, the most crucial element is the need for a fundamental reassessment of Nepal’s approach to regional security, acknowledging its growing engagement as a strategic asset and a significant source of potential vulnerability. The future of Nepal’s stability, and the well-being of its citizens abroad, hinges on a proactive, strategically-informed, and undeniably, courageous response. The challenge lies in transforming this burgeoning diaspora from a logistical consideration into a deliberate instrument of regional influence – a task that will require considerable investment, foresight, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.