Five Thai nationals held hostage in Gaza returned to Thailand on February 9th, 2025, after being released on January 30th as part of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
The hostages were transferred to an Israeli hospital for medical treatment before returning to the kingdom, the Thai government confirmed.
Emotional homecoming in Thailand
The five Thai nationals arrived at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport on February 9th, where they were welcomed by Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, Vice Foreign Minister Russ Jalichandra, and Permanent Secretary for Labor Boonsong Thapchaiyut. Family members embraced their loved ones in an emotional reunion after more than 15 months of uncertainty.
Foreign Minister Maris praised the extensive diplomatic efforts that led to their release, thanking Israel, international partners, the Chief of Defence Forces’ team, the Ministry of Labor, and all relevant Thai agencies for their contributions.
He also reiterated that the government remains committed to securing the release of the final Thai hostage and repatriating the remains of two Thai nationals who lost their lives in the conflict. Additionally, he emphasized ongoing government efforts to support Thai citizens working abroad.
Thai PM speaks with released hostages
On February 1st, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra had held a video call with the five former hostages. Joined by Foreign Minister Maris and senior Thai officials, who had traveled to Israel to visit them after their release was confirmed, she offered words of encouragement and assured them that the Government and Foreign Ministry were fully committed to assisting and welcoming their return to Thailand.
The hostages, who had reported being in good physical condition, expressed their gratitude to the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv for the efforts made to secure their release.
Diplomatic efforts lead to safe release
The release of the five hostages was confirmed last month by the Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv. After their release, the hostages were promptly transported to Shamir Medical Center for medical care. Thai officials, including Foreign Ministry representatives, were on hand to support them and facilitate communication with their families in Thailand.
The Ministry in a statement conveyed heartfelt congratulations to the families of the released hostages, as well as its deep appreciation to Qatar, Egypt, Iran, Türkiye, the United States, the International Committee of theRed Cross, and other international partners for their role in securing the release.
It also called for the release of all remaining hostages, including the last remaining Thai national still held in Gaza, so they can return safely to their homeland and families.
Teerin Julsawad