Thai national returns from Lebanon amid Israeli airstrikes
A Thai national has safely returned from Lebanon to Thailand, while five others await evacuation amidst Israeli airstrikes, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).
Nikorndej Balankura, the MFA spokesperson, noted that approximately 100 Thais residing in Lebanon prefer to stay and monitor the situation.
The spokesperson held an online press conference on October 6 addressing Israel’s attack on Lebanon. He mentioned that the Royal Thai Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, had updated the ministry on October 5 about the potential for the conflict to intensify.
The embassy in Riyadh, along with the consulate in Lebanon, has been in touch with Thais in Lebanon, informing them about the attack and offering assistance, including the facilitation of their return to Thailand.
Most Thais in Lebanon reside in Beirut, deemed relatively safe despite reports of Israeli airstrikes targeting the city’s southern suburbs on October 6. The spokesperson confirmed that one Thai national had returned home safely. Additionally, five Thai masseurs in Lebanon have requested to return and are being assisted by the embassy in coordination with their employers, the spokesperson added.
“There are about 100 Thais living in Lebanon, many having settled with their families and preferring to stay to assess the situation.
“Given the intense situation, which might escalate, the MFA and Royal Thai Embassy in the Middle East have prepared response plans, including possible evacuations for Thais in Lebanon.”
The ministry urges those in high-risk areas to leave while flights remain available and airspace is open. Furthermore, the spokesperson advised against travelling to northern Israel, near the Lebanese border, reported Bangkok Post.
