- विज्ञापन -
Bangkok: Thailand celebrated the return of five nationals who were recently released from Hamas captivity, arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport from Israel. Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, Deputy Foreign Minister Russ Jalichandra, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour were present to welcome them.
In a post on X, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed their relief at the safe return of the five individuals and highlighted the government’s ongoing commitment to securing the release of one remaining Thai hostage and repatriating the remains of two others. The Minister also acknowledged the efforts of all parties involved and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting Thai workers abroad.
The released workers were identified as Sathien Suwannakham from Nong Bua Lam Phu, Pongsak Thaenna from Buri Ram, Watchara Sriaoun from Udon Thani, Surasak Rumnao from Udon Thani, and Bannawat Saethao from Nan. Before the conflict between Hamas and Israel erupted on October 7, 2023, there were about 35,000 Thai workers in Israel. While approximately 9,000 returned to Thailand during the conflict, many have since gone back to work in Israel. Thailand plans to send an additional 10,000 workers to Israel’s agricultural sector and 8,000 to the construction sector this year.
In related news, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) announced that three hostages released by Hamas were en route to Israel for initial medical assessments. The release was part of a deal involving the exchange of Palestinian prisoners. The IDF shared on X that the returning hostages are being escorted by IDF and ISA forces as they head back to Israeli territory.
