Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran

Tehran, Apr 16: A Nepali citizen, Amrit Jha, who had been detained by authorities in Iran near the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz, has been released, the government of Nepal confirmed on Wednesday.

In an official statement, Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it received confirmation of Jha’s release through the Honorary Consul General of Nepal in Tehran. A local court in Iran reportedly ordered his release, although further details are still being gathered.

Authorities are now working to complete the necessary formalities to facilitate his safe return home. Coordination is underway between Nepal’s honorary consulate in Tehran and its embassy in Doha to ensure a smooth repatriation process.

Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Shisir Khanal, confirmed the development, stating that officials are in direct contact with Jha and actively assisting in his exit from Iran.

Jha had earlier been reported among crew members detained near Qeshm Island, close to the Strait of Hormuz—a crucial global oil transit route through which a significant share of the world’s crude supply passes. He was believed to be working as a seaman on a vessel operating in the region at the time of his detention, though the exact circumstances and timing of his arrest remain unclear.

Separately, the Nepali government expressed appreciation to the United Arab Emirates for granting clemency to 128 Nepali prisoners on the occasion of Ramadan.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the move as a humanitarian gesture and a reflection of the strong and friendly ties between the two nations. The pardons were granted following a formal request made by Nepal through its embassy in Abu Dhabi.