Bipin Joshi, Oct 7 Hero, Dies in Hamas Custody

The body of Bipin Joshi, the last known Hindu hostage held in Gaza, has been returned to Israel. His death was confirmed by officials on Monday. The Nepalese student was kidnapped during Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack.

His remains were handed over as part of a recent ceasefire agreement. This news overshadows the release of 20 living hostages. Joshi’s family had campaigned for his freedom for nearly two years.

Bipin Joshi Hamas Hostage Death Confirmed

Bipin Joshi was 22 years old when he was taken. He was in Israel for an agricultural training program. The program was at Kibbutz Alumim, near the Gaza border.

On the morning of the attack, Hamas terrorists stormed the area. Joshi and other students hid in a bomb shelter. According to Reuters, grenades were thrown into the bunker.

Joshi displayed immense bravery. He reportedly grabbed a live grenade and threw it back out. His actions saved several classmates from certain death.

He was injured during the assault. Hamas gunmen then captured him. He was taken into the Gaza Strip, beginning his long captivity.

The Long Wait for Answers

For over two years, Joshi’s status was unknown. His mother and younger sister became vocal advocates for his release. They travelled internationally to lobby officials.

They met with Israel’s President Isaac Herzog. They joined weekly protests at Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square. Their quiet resilience drew international attention.

Joshi was the only non-Israeli hostage believed to still be alive. He was also the only Hindu held in Gaza. His case highlighted the international scope of the hostage crisis.

The confirmation of his death comes from multiple sources. Nepal’s Ambassador to Israel confirmed the handover of his body. Israeli military spokespersons also acknowledged the return.

A Hero’s Legacy and International Mourning

Joshi is being remembered as a hero in both Nepal and Israel. His courageous act in the bunker saved lives. Ten of the seventeen Nepali students in his program were killed that day.

His death confirms the fears of many. Twenty-six hostages have now been formally declared dead by Israel. The identification process involves rigorous DNA testing.

His body will be repatriated to Nepal following official procedures. His family’ long and painful wait has ended in tragedy. The international community mourns the loss of a brave young student.

The confirmation of Bipin Joshi’s death brings a tragic close to a story that captured global attention. His legacy as a hero who saved his classmates will endure. The Bipin Joshi Hamas hostage situation underscores the devastating human cost of the ongoing conflict.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was Bipin Joshi?

Bipin Joshi was a 22-year-old student from Nepal. He was in Israel for an agricultural training program. He was taken hostage during the October 7th attack by Hamas.

How did Bipin Joshi die?

His exact cause of death has not been publicly released. Hamas confirmed his death and returned his body as part of a ceasefire deal. Israeli authorities will conduct further investigations.

What did Bipin Joshi do that was heroic?

During the Hamas attack, he threw a live grenade out of a crowded bomb shelter. This brave act saved the lives of his fellow students. He was injured and captured immediately after.

How many hostages are still in Gaza?

The number fluctuates with ongoing negotiations and releases. Over 100 hostages are believed to remain in captivity. The situation is fluid and subject to change daily.

What will happen to Bipin Joshi’s body?

His remains were handed to Israeli authorities. They will undergo official identification and DNA testing. After this, his body will be repatriated to his family in Nepal.