Israeli Embassy lacks updates on six Thai hostages held by Hamas
The Israeli Embassy in Thailand reported that it lacks any information regarding the six Thai hostages still held by Hamas, amidst reports of potential hostage exchanges in the region.
A representative from the Israeli Embassy confirmed the news yesterday, January 7.
“There is still no information about the Thai hostages.”
The statement follows a report from January 6 by Reuters, indicating that Hamas has allegedly approved a list of 34 hostages for exchange with Israel, contingent on a successful ceasefire. However, the BBC highlighted the uncertainty over how many of those listed are still alive.
Notably, two individuals on the list were taken hostage following the conflict in the Middle East on October 7 last year, which resulted in hundreds of deaths.
The hostages’ ages vary significantly, from as young as one year to as old as 86, including children whom Hamas accuses Israel of having killed during airstrikes, alongside others who have reportedly fallen ill.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has seen 31 Thai nationals taken hostage, with 23 having been released to date. Two were confirmed deceased last May, leaving six still in captivity with Hamas.
Contrary to media reports, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office stated on January 6 that the list of hostages was not provided to Israel by Hamas. Instead, it originated from Israel and was given to mediators in July last year, reported Bangkok Post.
The office further remarked that Israel has not received any confirmation or comments from Hamas regarding the hostages on the list. It affirmed Israel’s commitment to ensuring all remaining hostages are accounted for.
In related news, the Foreign Ministry of Thailand on November 27 last year announced the release of three additional Thai nationals, Wichian Temthong, Surin Kesungnoen and Pornsawan Pinakalo, from Hamas’ captivity. This brings the total number of freed Thai hostages to 17. Upon their release, the trio were admitted to an Israeli hospital for medical check-ups.
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