Bangkok: The Prime Minister convened a meeting with the Ministries of Transport, Energy, and Finance to discuss measures following the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East. He also ordered clarification on the sources of the other half of Thailand's crude oil imports after the Strait of Hormuz oil transport route was closed.

According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul chaired a meeting at Government House to discuss energy measures. Attendees included Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkaew, Minister of Energy Attapol Rerkpipibun, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport Chayatham Promsorn, Secretary-General of the National Security Council (NSC) Chatchai Bangchawad, the Secretary-General of the Council of State, the Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy Sompop Pattanariyangkul, and Director-General of the Department of Energy Business Sarawut Kaewtathip.

The Prime Minister stated in his opening remarks that due to the fighting in the Middle East and the current closure of the Strait of Hormuz, oil transportation, particularly crude oil imports, has been affected. He mentioned a meeting yesterday and received reports from Mr. Pipat and Mr. Ekniti. While there were no immediate impacts on domestic oil consumption in March, reports indicate a decrease in the amount of oil entering Thailand. The situation has changed significantly since Saturday, the day the conflict began, and has escalated. A meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) was held on Monday (March 2nd), where information changes daily, necessitating the formulation of measures to ensure there are no negative impacts on crude oil imports and management from other sources. He noted that over half of Thailand's imports come from the Middle East and the other half from other regions. He requested a clarification on the origins of the other half, noting that Mr. Pipat and Mr. Ekniti are highly skill ed experts in oil trading and should assist in brainstorming ways to minimize the impact. He also asked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to negotiate with other countries regarding the purchase of oil and other fuels to reassure domestic consumers.