Discover the latest updates on the situation involving 32 Thai hostages abducted by Hamas during the October 7 cross-border raid into Israel. Bangkok's foreign ministry, in collaboration with Thai Muslim groups, is actively engaged in negotiations for their release. Learn about the challenges faced by tens of thousands of Thais working in Israel and the return of six hostages from the Gaza Strip. Follow the ongoing diplomatic efforts, the toll on Thai citizens amid the conflict, and the evolving dynamics in the Israel-Gaza region. Stay informed on the complexities of this situation and the collaborative efforts to bring about a resolution.
In a distressing incident, Hamas abducted at least 32 Thai citizens, among the tens of thousands working in Israel, during a cross-border raid on October 7. This attack resulted in 1,200 casualties, mostly civilians, and the kidnapping of around 240 individuals, as reported by Israeli authorities. Efforts led by Bangkok's foreign ministry and Thai Muslim groups are underway to secure the release of these hostages.
Fortunately, six Thai hostages are expected to return to Thailand on Monday after enduring weeks of captivity in the Gaza Strip. The hostages, who had been receiving medical attention in Israel since their release, are set to land at Suvarnabhumi airport around 2:00 pm (0700 GMT).
This development follows the return of 17 Thai citizens at the end of November, coinciding with a temporary truce that led to the release of numerous individuals before expiring on December 1. However, there are still nine Thais among the hostages taken by Palestinian operatives during the October raid, as reported by Bangkok's foreign ministry.
In response to the October 7 attack, Israel initiated a comprehensive campaign involving air, artillery, and naval strikes, along with a ground offensive into Gaza. Regrettably, this has resulted in over 15,500 casualties, predominantly civilians, according to Palestinian officials.
Thailand, deeply affected by the conflict, had 30,000 citizens in Israel during the raid, primarily migrant workers from the kingdom's less affluent provinces. The toll on Thai citizens includes 39 deaths and 19 injuries, prompting the evacuation of over 8,500 individuals by Thailand's foreign ministry.
As the situation unfolds, ongoing diplomatic efforts and negotiations remain critical for securing the release of the remaining hostages and fostering a resolution to the broader conflict in the region.