10-10-2023 (BANGKOK) Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has called upon Thai nationals residing in Israel to promptly make a decision regarding their evacuation, emphasizing the escalating global concern surrounding the situation. The Thai death toll has now reached 30, prompting the urgent need for action.
Speaking in Beijing on Wednesday, Mr. Srettha urged those who remain undecided to consider their options, highlighting that the risk ultimately lies with them. He assured that if individuals choose to return, the government will spare no effort in facilitating a swift and safe evacuation.
Expressing his sadness over the latest report of another Thai fatality in Israel, bringing the total to 30, Mr. Srettha also noted that the number of injured individuals stands at 16, with 17 reported abductions.
During his visit to Beijing, the Prime Minister met with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who expressed shock at the loss of Thai lives in Israel. Mr. Srettha emphasized that Thailand is not involved in the conflict but has unfortunately suffered the second-highest number of casualties, following only the United States.
Mr. Srettha revealed that the leaders of other nations he met in Beijing expressed deep concern about the situation in Israel. While the Thai government has the capacity to evacuate 600 Thai workers from Israel daily, the current circumstances make it challenging to gather such a large number of individuals together simultaneously.
On Wednesday morning, an air force Airbus departed Bangkok for its second flight to retrieve Thai nationals in Israel. The Airbus 340-500 is scheduled to return on Thursday afternoon, bringing back 145 evacuees.
According to the Labor Ministry, 8,160 Thai workers in Israel have expressed their intention to return home, while 111 others have chosen to remain in the country.
At the onset of the recent conflict on October 7, there were approximately 30,000 Thai workers in Israel. Efforts have already been made to bring over a thousand individuals back home, with ongoing initiatives to ensure the safety and well-being of the remaining Thai citizens.
