In a recent update, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the release of 10 Thai nationals who were previously held hostage in the Gaza Strip by the Palestinian group Hamas. This corrected the earlier report, which inaccurately mentioned the release of 12 hostages.
The released individuals, including Natthawaree Moonkan, Santi Boonphrom, Boonthom Phankhong, Mongkhol Phajuabboon, Withoon Phumee, Wichai Kalapat, Bancha Kongmanee, Buddee Saengboon, Uthai Thunsri, and Uthai Sangnuan, are currently undergoing monitoring at Shamir Medical Centre Hospital (Assaf Harofeh) in Israel. This information was confirmed by the Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv.
The embassy has promptly notified the families of the freed hostages in Thailand and is overseeing their mandatory 48-hour medical stay at the hospital. A dedicated team of Thai-speaking psychologists and social workers is providing essential support during this critical period.
Despite this positive development, an estimated 20 Thai nationals are still being held in Gaza. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively working to secure the release of the remaining hostages. The ministry has expressed gratitude for the unwavering support received from the governments of Qatar, Israel, Egypt, Iran, Malaysia, and the International Committee of the Red Cross throughout the negotiation process.
The situation remains dynamic, and the ministry continues its efforts to ensure the safe return of all Thai nationals involved, emphasizing diplomatic collaboration and international cooperation in this challenging time.
