Three more Thai hostages freed from Hamas captivity in Israel

The Foreign Ministry of Thailand today announced the release of three additional Thai nationals, Wichian Temthong, Surin Kesungnoen and Pornsawan Pinakalo, from Hamas’ captivity. This brings the total number of freed Thai hostages to 17. Upon their release, the trio were admitted to an Israeli hospital for medical check-ups.

These individuals were among a group of 17 hostages released yesterday, which also included 14 Israeli nationals. Embassy personnel visited the newly freed Thai hostages at the hospital, offering support and facilitating communication with their families back in Thailand.

The Foreign Ministry extended its congratulations to the families of the released Thai hostages and expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the negotiation process. It further reiterated the government’s commitment to securing the release of the remaining 15 Thai nationals believed to be in Hamas captivity.

The ministry also announced that the 17 Thai nationals who have been released so far will be brought back to Thailand as soon as they complete the initial compensation process in Israel.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin took to Twitter today to share the good news.

“Congratulations. As of November 26 at 8.36pm (local time) the three Thai hostages had arrived at Kerem Shalom checkpoint.”

The 61 year old Thai PM further added that following an initial physical examination, all three individuals were in good health and did not require any emergency medical treatment, reported Bangkok Post.

Pannabha Chandraramya, the Thai ambassador to Israel, mentioned in a statement that Yossi Shelly, the director of the Israeli prime minister’s office visited the Thais who were released earlier at the Shamir Medical Centre. Shelly expressed his delight at their safe return to Israel, assured them of the Israeli government’s assistance and medical care, and thanked them for their significant contribution to the agricultural sector of Israel.

In related news, a woman, previously mourning the loss of her boyfriend in the October 7 attack on Israel, now rejoices as his imminent return becomes a reality. The release of 26 hostages brings a ray of hope to those who have endured a month of uncertainty. Read more HERE.