Missile Smoke in the Middle Eastern Sky: Nepalis’ Anguish and a Plea for Peace
Kathmandu – As missile trails scar the skies over the Middle East, clouds of fear and uncertainty have engulfed the hearts of millions of Nepalis. The escalating military tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran have precipitated a major crisis for global peace, with Nepali migrant workers bearing the brunt of its direct impact.
Former Prime Minister and CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli has expressed his deep distress over the war engulfing the Middle East. In an emotional appeal on social media, he stated, “The sight of missile smoke raining from the skies over Middle Eastern countries has robbed me of sleep today. Millions of Nepalis in those countries are in distress and turmoil. Their families here are agonizing with every passing moment.” He remarked that war is a product of geopolitical greed, forcing smaller nations into turmoil due to the interests of powerful states. “Fortunately, we have not had to endure missile smoke on our land. My prayer is that it never comes here, in any guise,” he added.
Similarly, CPN-UML Secretary Mahesh Basnet emphasized the need for restraint and diplomatic initiatives at this hour of conflict. “Such conflicts inflict a massive humanitarian crisis on innocent civilians, especially women and children. Therefore, it is imperative today that all parties exercise restraint and move towards a diplomatic solution,” he stated. He stressed that the global community must choose the path of peace and dialogue.
Meanwhile, leader of the Nepali Communist Party, Dev Gurung, has strongly urged the Nepal government to launch an immediate, war-footing initiative for the safety and rescue of Nepalis in the Middle East. “From the morning of Falgun 16, the US and Israel jointly launched missile attacks on Iran. Subsequently, Iran has retaliated against US military camps in Israel and the Middle East. This has ignited war in the Middle East, creating a severe humanitarian security crisis. The security of millions of Nepalis is also under grave threat,” Gurung said. Noting that all flights to the Middle East have been suspended, placing Nepalis at further risk, he pressured the government to formulate an immediate and concrete rescue plan.
In this context, a special appeal has been made to Nepali brothers and sisters residing in the Middle East. Nepali Congress leader Balendra Sah urged them to exercise utmost caution. He stated, “The embassy there, considering the current abnormal situation, has requested everyone to remain highly vigilant. Please stay safely indoors as much as possible, fully comply with the directives of local security agencies, refrain from travel except in emergencies, and keep yourself informed about the nearest safe shelter. Furthermore, please stay in regular contact with official notices, news, and the embassy. Stay safe, stay alert.”
In this time of war, while the pain and worry of Nepali citizens—especially those with relatives in the Middle East—are profound, the Nepali leadership has reiterated the message that a solution is possible only through peace and dialogue.
