Thai workers may be released in next Hamas prisoner batch, says PM
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday hinted at possible positive developments regarding the Thai workers held hostage by Hamas.
Expectations are high that they may be part of the next release batch, following negotiations facilitated by Qatar. However, the Thai prime minister has not yet had an in-depth discussion with Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara on the matter.
Out of the 50 hostages speculated to be released by Hamas, some could be Thai workers. This release hinges on the fulfilment of Hamas’s demand for fuel and other assistance to be delivered to Gaza. The Foreign Ministry revealed that 19 Thai nationals were among the 200 plus individuals kidnapped by the militant group during their assault on Israel on October 7.
The prime minister also shed light on the efforts being made by the foreign minister to ensure the safe release of the captives. He also stated that the Finance Ministry is formulating measures to support the workers upon their return from the combat zone.
Previously, PM Srettha mentioned that some Israeli employers had deferred wage payments until November 10, causing several workers to reconsider their decision. Still, others were offered increased wages to remain in their positions, reported Bangkok Post.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry updated the death toll of Thai nationals in Israel, which has risen from 30 to 31, while the injury count remains at 18. Ministry spokesperson Kanchana Patarachok announced that seven bodies would be arriving at Suvarnabhumi International Airport today at 10.35am.
Evacuation efforts
Given the persistent violence and the potential difficulties it may pose for future evacuation efforts, the Ministry has advised Thai nationals in Israel to consider evacuation. It also suggested that travel to Israel should be postponed or avoided for the time being.
As per the Ministry’s records, 4,296 Thai workers have returned home, out of the 8,478 registered Thais who expressed their desire to return. Kenika Ounjit, the government’s deputy spokesperson, stated that authorities are working to assist the returnees and secure jobs for them in Israel once the situation stabilises.
She referred to a statement made by Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Captain Thamanat Prompow. According to him, the Ministry is considering a support programme for those who worked in the agriculture sector in Israel. The plan involves recruiting them to share their knowledge and skills in innovative farming techniques, particularly in the area of water management.
