In an unexpected turn of events, while Hamas agreed to release Israeli hostages in a deal with Israel, the militant group has also released 12 Thai hostages as part of a separate agreement with Bangkok. The release of the Thai hostages was confirmed by Egypt’s foreign ministry and the Thailand Prime Minister’s office on Friday. This development has brought relief to Thailand and initiated coordination efforts to ensure the safe return of the hostages to their home country.
Thailand’s Joyous Reaction:
Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin promptly shared his delight on social media, confirming that officials were en route to pick up the freed hostages. Parnpree Bahiddha-nukara, Thailand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, joined in expressing joy and gratitude for the hostages’ release. Thai embassies in the region have been instructed to remain vigilant and cooperate closely with local authorities to facilitate the safe return of the Thai citizens.
The Iranian-Brokered Deal:
Earlier reports from the U.K.-based news site Al-Araby Al-Jadeed had suggested that 23 Thai hostages would be released through a deal brokered by Iran. However, the details and confirmation of this arrangement remain unclear. The Thai government has been actively engaged in diplomatic discussions to secure the release of its citizens held by Hamas, leading to a visit to Tehran by Thai officials in October to meet with senior representatives of the militant group.
Thai Nationals in Hamas’ Captivity:
Among the more than 200 people abducted following Hamas’ attack on Israel in October, at least 25 are Thai nationals, making them the largest group of foreigners among the hostages. Tragically, 32 Thai citizens have lost their lives, and another 19 have been injured during the attack. The Thai government has been committed to bringing all of its citizens home safely and has been diligently pursuing diplomatic channels for their release.
The Changing Reality for Thai Workers in Israel:
The brutal attack by Hamas shed light on the approximately 30,000 Thai nationals employed in Israel, primarily in the agricultural sector. Disturbing footage shown at the United Nations General Assembly in November depicted a Hamas fighter beheading a Thai farmer. Thailand’s foreign ministry criticized the airing of such graphic content, emphasizing its disrespectful nature towards the victim and their family.
Despite safety concerns, a considerable number of Thai workers have chosen to remain in Israel due to the higher wages offered there. In response, the Thai government has implemented repatriation efforts, successfully bringing back more than 7,000 citizens from Israel. To further encourage Thai nationals to return home, the government has provided financial assistance through offering 50,000 baht (approximately 1,400 USD) and soft loans. Allegations of certain Israeli employers enticing or withholding salaries from Thai workers to retain them in Israel have been denied by the Israeli embassy, inciting further debate.
Israel-Hamas Truce and Thai Workers’ Safety:
The truce agreement between Israel and Hamas, signed on late Tuesday, instigated a ceasefire in Gaza, which started on Friday morning. This ceasefire is expected to last for four days, representing the longest period of pause since the start of the conflict. Moreover, as part of the agreement, Israel has pledged to release 150 Palestinian prisoners, while Hamas has committed to releasing at least 50 Israeli women and children held captive.
Responding to the truce, Prime Minister Srettha insisted that Thai workers in Israel should prioritize their safety and refrain from returning to conflict zones during the suspension of hostilities. While the government cannot impose this decision on individuals, it urges them to take responsible measures to protect themselves if they choose to return to risky areas.
The separate release of 12 Thai hostages by Hamas, as part of the agreement with Bangkok, has provided a glimmer of hope amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas truce. The Thai government continues its efforts to ensure the safe return of all its citizens and expresses gratitude for the collaboration received from Iranian and other regional parties. As the ceasefire offers a temporary respite, it is imperative that Thai workers prioritize their well-being and remain cautious during these uncertain times.
Market Capital Research 