The first group of Thai nationals flying from the Israeli-Palestinian conflict returned home to their families late Thursday morning.
Following a wide-scale attack from Palestinian group Hamas on Israel this weekend, a total of 15 Thai nationals flying from Tel Aviv landed at Suvarnabhumi Airport to meet their families who had been waiting for their safe return.
Efforts are being made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as evacuations are carried out as quickly as possible for those who have yet to return. The evacuation, however, is proving difficult as many Thai nationals, many of whom are laborers, are scattered throughout the country.
Over 5,990 people are requesting to return, according to foreign affairs minister Parnpree Bahiddha-nukara, and the Thai government is coordinating with several commercial airlines to help bring Thai nationals back.
The Thai Air Force is also actively working to bring Thai people back quickly, and they may consider evacuation to neighboring countries first. Public health department officials will tend to those who have been injured in the conflict.
Tragedy struck for many in Israel when Palestinian militant groups led by Hamas launched a wide-scale attack against the country, leaving over 1,000 dead and 330,000 people displaced in Gaza.
There are approximately 30,000 Thais in Israel, mostly working in the agriculture sector, according to Thailand’s labor ministry.
As of Thursday afternoon, the ministry reports that 21 Thais have been killed in the conflict and at least 13 have been injured. At least 16 Thais have been taken hostage by Hamas. The Thai government is currently trying to negotiate with the group for the release of Thai national hostages, according to deputy prime minister Chakrapong Saengmanee.
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