BANGKOK: Five Thai workers, released after being held hostage for over a year in Gaza, arrived in Bangkok on Sunday (Feb 9).
Sarusak Rumnao, 32, Watchara Sriaoun, 33, Sathian Suwannakham, 35, Pongsak Thaenna, 36, and Bannawat Saethao, 27, were freed on Jan 30 as part of an exchange arrangement.
They were the second batch of Thai hostages released since the war broke out.
In a press conference held at Suvarnabhumi Airport shortly after their arrival back in Bangkok, one hostage thanked Thai authorities for their efforts.
“We would not be here today if it wasn’t for the help of every one of you,” said Pongsak Thaenna. “We are deeply grateful and overjoyed to have returned to our homeland once again. There are no words that can describe how thankful we are all.”
Accompanying their arrival was Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, who said both Israeli and Thai governments were working together to pay out compensation and safeguard the hostages’ interests.
“We will work together even more to enhance the conditions of our workers in Israel. I want to see our workers develop their potential to become entrepreneurs, not just remain as labourers,” he said.
During an earlier ceasefire in November 2023, 23 Thai nationals were released in a deal negotiated between Thailand and Hamas, with assistance from Qatar and Iran.
All five men were assessed at a hospital outside Tel Aviv prior to their return.
Four of them were joined by one relative each earlier this week.
The trip was sponsored by the Israeli government, according to the Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/thailand-hostages-bangkok-return-gaza-4926491
