Hundreds of Israelis stuck in Nepal as chaos grips streets

The country’s main airport is shut amid anti-government protests.

By Batya Jerenberg, World Israel News

Hundreds of Israelis are stranded in Nepal as anti-government protests have shut down roads and the country’s main airport, Ynet reported Tuesday night.

About 200 Israelis in the capital of Kathmandu have flocked to the small Chabad House to wait out the chaos, centered in the area of Parliament and many government offices.

The movement of hundreds of mountain trekkers has also been restricted because of roadblocks and a nationwide curfew, but tourists say they do not feel endangered.

An Israeli tourist, Gilad, told Ynet, “A lot of Israelis are in the middle of a trek and there is uncertainty, but there is also an amazing bond between Israelis and a good atmosphere overall. A lot of people’s itinerary was screwed up. They wanted to go on a two-day trek and can’t.”

Leaving the country is now difficult, as Tribhuvan International Airport was closed Tuesday until further notice due to the curfew.

Authorities also cited hazardous smoke from fires set at government buildings in Kathmandu, including Parliament, the presidential palace and the prime minister’s official residence, as well as the president’s and prime minister’s private homes.

Tens of thousands of mostly young Nepalese have been rioting for the past few days. The unrest began after the government banned most social media sites for failing to register and agree to official oversight.

The move was widely viewed as censorship and a restriction on free expression.

It especially angered Gen Z, who were already frustrated by 20% unemployment among their age group and widespread perceptions of government corruption, especially as officials’ children are seen enjoying a lavish lifestyle.

On Monday, police opened fire on the crowds, killing 19 and wounding dozens, which fueled larger protests on Tuesday, along with arson and attacks on several ministers.

Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli unsuccessfully tried to calm the situation by rescinding the social media ban, ordering an inquiry into the shootings and promising free medical care for the injured.

Later that day, he and several other ministers resigned, though he remains in a caretaker role as efforts have begun to form a new coalition.

Top officials, including the army chief of staff, who has so far kept his troops in their barracks, have called for quiet and a dialogue with the protesters.

Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged Israelis in Nepal to avoid non-essential travel and follow the instructions of local authorities.

It also advised avoiding Kathmandu in the coming days, staying away from crowded places, demonstrations and protests, and following updates in local media.