Thailand urges release of hostages amid Israel-Hamas ceasefire
Thailand is urging the release of Thai hostages from the Gaza Strip following the initiation of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire on January 19.
Yesterday, January 20, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) issued a statement concerning the agreement. The statement called for the release of hostages allegedly captured by Hamas during the conflict in southern Israel which kicked off on October 7, 2023.
The ministry emphasised the urgent release of all hostages from Gaza, citing concerns over the stability of the Middle East, international law, and relevant United Nations resolutions.
“Thailand calls on all sides to fully implement the deal, as well as the immediate release of all remaining hostages, including Thai nationals,” the statement noted.
Some 31 Thai citizens were taken hostage early in the conflict. To date, 23 have been released, while two were confirmed dead last May. Six reportedly remain in Hamas custody.
The opposition People’s Party (PP) also expressed demands on Facebook, urging Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and the government to negotiate the hostages’ release. The party voiced concern for Thai nationals still held by Hamas.
The party highlighted worries about the welfare of the Thai hostages, noting that the list of potential releases published by the Jerusalem Post did not include any Thai names, reported Bangkok Post.
“The PP demands that the prime minister, the foreign affairs minister, and related sectors implement their best diplomatic efforts to work closely with allies and international organisations in the negotiations for the release of the hostages.”
“We demand [Paetongtarn] work on the hostages’ release directly during the ceasefire deal,” stated the PP.
In related news, the Israeli Embassy in Thailand reported that it lacks any information regarding the six Thai hostages reportedly still held by Hamas, amidst reports of potential hostage exchanges in the region.
A representative from the Israeli Embassy reported the news on January 7.
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