Miraculous escape from Gaza hellfire: Thai worker’s astonishing tale of survival

Puntid TantivangphaisalPublished: 14:56, 28 November 2023| Updated: 14:59, 28 November 2023

150 1 minute read

Miraculous escape from Gaza hellfire: Thai worker’s astonishing tale of survival

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

In the aftermath of the conflict in Gaza, Thai worker Wanchai Monsena defies death and lives to recount a harrowing tale of survival.

The resulting conflict between Israel and Hamas has left 39 Thai compatriots dead, 19 wounded, and 30 abducted. But amidst the tragedy, Thai worker Wanchai’s resilience shines through as he battles back from the brink.

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Communication proves a formidable challenge for Wanchai, a 44 year old Thai survivor, as he navigates Israeli medical care. With only Thai at his disposal, his silent strength speaks volumes, earning admiration from medical staff despite the language barrier.

The Thai worker’s ordeal began on a seemingly ordinary day near the Ego packaging factory. As rockets rained down, a group of Hamas terrorists descended. What followed was a nightmare: fire, chaos, and an impossible choice between the threat of terrorists and the lethal embrace of smoke and flames.

Plastic Surgeon Professor Josef Haik, overseeing Wanchai’s treatment, describes him as really strong but acknowledges the long road ahead. With 50% burns and intensive foot treatment, the Thai worker faces at least 150 more days in bed before rehabilitation. Each step is a painful reminder of his battle with death.

As Wanchai fights for his life, Thailand mourns the loss of its citizens. Families grieve, homes mirror a sombre reality, and loved ones pray for the safe return of the abducted. The Thai government negotiates with Hamas, seeking the release of its citizens amidst the broader tragedy of 240 abductions that day, reported Bangkok Post.

Wanchai’s journey from his idyllic Thai village to the chaos in Israel reveals a man seeking respite from work fatigue. His dreams shattered by an attack he never anticipated, leaving him alone, bandaged, and contemplating a return home to a family he’s seen only through video calls.

Puntid Tantivangphaisal

Originally from Hong Kong, Puntid moved to Bangkok in 2020 to pursue further studies in translation. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Hong Kong. Puntid spent 8 years living in Manchester, UK. Before joining The Thaiger, Puntid has been a freelance translator for 2 years. In her free time, she enjoys swimming and listening to music, as well as writing short fiction and poetry.