Four Thai workers released from Hamas captivity

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Thailand confirmed the release of four Thai workers today, previously held captive by Hamas militants. The release occurred yesterday evening, as reported by the Royal Thai Embassy situated in Tel Aviv, Israel.

The freed workers – Paiboon Ratnil, Kong Saelao, Chakraphan Sikhena, and Chalermchai Saengkaew – underwent a medical examination at an Israeli hospital. Officials from the Thai embassy have been attending to them since their release. Provisions have been made for the workers to connect with their families and relatives from the hospital.

The ministry expressed its congratulations to the families of the four Thai nationals and expressed gratitude to all parties involved in the negotiation process leading to their release, reported Bangkok Post.

Yet, nine Thai nationals are still suspected of being held captive by Hamas. The ministry further assured that the Thai government is dedicated to ensuring their swift release. Upon completion of an initial compensation process in Israel, the released workers will return to Thailand.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin posted an update on Twitter, stating that the four released Thai citizens arrived at Hatzerim Airbase in southern Israel at 2am Israel time today. He extended his thanks to all the coordinating parties involved in their release.

Since the initiation of the Israel-Hamas truce agreement on November 24, Hamas has released 70 Israelis, 23 Thai nationals, two Russians, and one Philippine citizen. Israel, on the other hand, has freed 210 Palestinians.

In related news, the Hamas group released another four Thai workers from their captivity, according to a statement made by Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Kanchama Patarachoke. The announcement was based on a report from the Thai embassy in Tel Aviv.

The spokesperson, who also heads the Department of Information, indicated that upon their release, Israeli officials admitted the four Thai nationals to a hospital for health check-ups. The Thai embassy promptly dispatched staff to the hospital to look after them and relayed the positive news to their families. To read more click HERE