Bangkok: The Royal Thai Navy Rescue Center has disclosed that the status of three Thai crew members aboard the Mayuree Naree cruise ship is still pending confirmation. Meanwhile, the body of a Chaiyaphum worker who died in Israel is set to arrive in Thailand tomorrow morning. The Center for Disaster Relief (CDRR) has reiterated its call for Thai citizens to leave high-risk areas at the earliest opportunity.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Panidol Patchimsawat, Acting Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, provided an update on the situation and the assistance being extended to Thai citizens. He noted that the situation in the Middle East remains unstable, characterized by ongoing retaliatory attacks between the conflicting parties.
Reports have emerged that the United States has proposed a 15-point plan to Iran, aiming to halt the hostilities in the Middle East. This plan includes the permanent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for shipping. Should negotiations falter, there looms a threat of additional US strikes on Iranian infrastructure. In relation to the Strait of Hormuz, it has been indicated that vessels from countries not adversarial to Iran would be permitted passage.
Mr. Panidol emphasized the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' appeal to Thai citizens to evacuate high-risk zones promptly. In terms of support for Thai nationals in Iran and Oman, especially concerning the three Thai crew members, Mayuree and Naree, Mr. Panidol mentioned that their status is still awaiting confirmation. Thailand has expressed gratitude to Iran and Oman for their cooperation in this mission. Notably, the Thai commercial vessel has safely navigated the Strait of Hormuz and is currently heading towards Thailand.
With regard to Thai nationals, Mr. Panidol reported that four individuals have already returned to Thailand, with another eight en route from Iran to Turkey, continuing their journey back home.
The remains of the deceased are scheduled to be repatriated to Thailand aboard El Al Airlines, arriving at 9:20 AM tomorrow. Officials have been in communication with relatives and families since yesterday. To date, a total of 1,486 Thai citizens have been rescued.
Mr. Panidol added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is vigilantly observing the situation concerning Thai workers in Israel. While Israel is recognized for its robust security system, he stressed the importance of all Thai workers and citizens in Israel adhering strictly to the established safety protocols.