Israel congratulates Nepal on HoR elections, pledges closer ties

KATHMANDU: Israel has congratulated Nepal on the successful conduct of the House of Representatives elections, stating that it is an important step in strengthening democracy.

Speaking at a press conference in Kathmandu this afternoon under the theme "The Dawn of a New Middle East", Israeli Ambassador to Nepal Shmulik Arie Bass expressed Israel’s desire to work closely with Nepal to further deepen bilateral friendship and cooperation.

During the briefing, Ambassador Bass said Israel seeks peace in the Middle East and is ready to negotiate with all neighbouring countries for the peace and progress of the entire region.

He alleged that his country has been repeatedly targeted by extremist organisations such as Hezbollah and Hamas, and accused Iran of providing funding and support to these groups, which Israel considers an existential threat.

The ambassador emphasised that Israel does not want to target Iranian civilians, stating that Israel’s goal is to liberate the people of Iran from the rule of dictators like Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, whom he said is posing a threat to regional and global security.

He also said recent joint air strikes by the United States and Israel were aimed at neutralising Iran’s nuclear threat to the Middle East and beyond. He added that Israel remains committed to defending itself while seeking a peaceful future.