The governments of neighbouring India and Bangladesh have condemned the killing of a dozen Nepalis by a group of Islamic militants in Iraq.

Indian Foreign Minister K. Natwar Singh called Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba Wednesday to convey the anguish and deep sympathy felt by the government and people of India for the people of Nepal and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.

According to a press release issued by the Indian embassy  in Kathmandu, the government of India has offered to provide any assistance that may be required by Nepal to bring back the bodies of the victims.

“Appropriate instructions have been issued to Indian ambassador in Baghdad,” the statement said quoting Mr. Singh.

Similarly, the government of Bangladesh has condemned the killing of Nepali hostages in Iraq terming it as a “mindless act.” A statement issued by the Foreign Ministry of Bangladesh said the government of Bangladesh was shocked at the incident.

The government of Japan has also expressed its shock over the killings of ordinary Nepalis in Iraq.