In an emotional reunion at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport, five Thai workers arrived home after enduring over a year of captivity in Gaza. The individuals, identified as Sarusak Rumnao, 32, Watchara Sriaoun, 33, Sathian Suwannakham, 35, Pongsak Thaenna, 36, and Bannawat Saethao, 27, were liberated as part of an exchange agreement on January 30. The poignant moment was highlighted by tears and tight embraces with family members who had eagerly awaited their return.
This release was a significant event attended by notable figures such as Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sagniampongsa and Israeli Ambassador to Thailand Orna Sagiv. Pongsak Thaenna spoke at a news conference, expressing heartfelt gratitude, We are all very grateful and very happy to be back in our homeland. Thank you doesn’t seem enough.
Foreign Minister Maris emphasized Thailand's unwavering commitment to bringing citizens back safely. Today, we see the results of persistence and hope, Maris stated, vowing to continue efforts to free the remaining captive, Nattapong Pingsa, and retrieve the bodies of two deceased Thai nationals.
The freed hostages had been among the 31 Thai nationals abducted during a Hamas-led assault on October 7, 2023. This incident marked them as the largest cohort of foreign nationals captured. Many of these workers lived around southern Israel's kibbutzim, which were among the first to face Hamas attacks. Tragically, 46 Thai citizens were killed during the conflict.
Before their return to Thailand, the men underwent health assessments at a hospital near Tel Aviv. The Israeli government facilitated the trip, reflecting ongoing diplomatic support. The Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv confirmed that these assessments ensured the wellbeing of the men before reuniting with their loved ones.
Reflecting on past efforts, November 2023 saw an earlier release of 23 Thai nationals amid ceasefire negotiations involving Qatar and Iran. This cooperation underscores regional diplomatic efforts in addressing such crises.
Thai nationals constitute the largest group of foreign agricultural workers in Israel, benefiting from a bilateral agreement between the two nations over a decade ago. This treaty facilitated the employment of Thai workers in the agricultural sector, a crucial part of Israel's economy. However, political stability remains a concern, especially with many Palestinian workers returning home, as Israel's labor force is dependent on foreign employment.
As the group departed for their hometowns in Thailand's northern and northeastern areas, the sense of relief was palpable. Yet, the mission is not fully accomplished. Efforts continue to secure the freedom of Nattapong Pingsa and provide closure for the families of the two men whose bodies remain in Gaza.
