Thailand commits to release of Thai captives held by Hamas
Srettha Thavisin, the Prime Minister of Thailand, recently reaffirmed the government’s commitment to secure the release of all remaining Thai captives held hostage in Palestine. The 61 year old Thai PM dispelled circulating rumours concerning the government’s intention to abandon the remaining captives, asserting that their liberation would have to wait until the next ceasefire.
Foreign Affairs Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara provided an account of the situation, stating that the exact number of remaining captives is uncertain but estimates suggest there are about eight to nine workers still held hostage. Concerning the progress of the Qatar-mediated discussions, Parnpree disclosed that there might have been some disagreements between Qatar and Israel, however, he didn’t expect this to affect the Thai hostages as the majority have already been released by Hamas.
On the previous day, six liberated hostages, namely Pattanayut Tonsokree, Owat Suriya, Paiboon Ratnil, Kong Saelao, Chakraphan Sikhena, and Chalermchai Saengkaew, landed at Suvarnabhumi International Airport at 12.15pm on flight LY081 of El Al Airlines. Among them, 26 year old Kong has returned to his hometown, Ban Kiew Doi Luang located in Tambon Rim Khong of Chiang Khong district, Chiang Rai. Kong’s wife, Suntree Saelee, expressed immense joy and relief upon discovering her husband was alive, reported Bangkok Post.
The conflict in Israel has seen a large number of Thai workers, totalling 2,174 from Chiang Rai alone, travel to the country for work. As of November 27, 1,101 have returned to Thailand, while three individuals have lost their lives since the outbreak of the conflict. Two hostages, including Kong, have been freed by Hamas.
Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn revealed that the ministry is negotiating with other countries to relocate Thai workers from Israel to work in their agriculture sectors. A recent agreement between Thailand and South Korea is expected to see a significant number of Thais head to South Korea for work early next year.
Interestingly, Israel has requested that Thai workers continue their services in the country and has extended the contracts of those who signed five-year deals for another year.
Regarding compensation, Phiphat disclosed that the ministry has already disbursed 15,000 baht to each of the earlier returnees and is preparing to pay the remaining individuals. A proposal for an additional 50,000 baht compensation and a three-year debt suspension will be presented to the Cabinet next Tuesday.
