Thailand Ramps Up Evacuation Plan for Nationals in Iran Amid Rising Tensions

Bangkok: Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul convened an emergency "War Room" meeting with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday to accelerate the evacuation of Thai nationals from Iran as Middle East tensions escalate. The government assessment suggests the conflict could persist for at least four weeks, with potential for further escalation. Prime Minister Anutin stated that approximately 300 Thais, including government officials, will be brought back to Thailand as quickly as possible. The Thai government is currently coordinating expedited exit visas to bypass standard application delays.

According to Thai News Agency, Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow confirmed that the situation in Iran now warrants a formal evacuation, with plans to move citizens to Turkey first or deploy chartered flights from Egypt. While only 20 out of 60,000 Thais in Israel have requested to return, officials remain on high alert as conditions fluctuate. Simultaneously, the government is monitoring open airspace and airline availability in the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain to secure sufficient tickets for those wishing to depart, while authorities continue to urge all Thais to move away from high-risk areas, specifically those located near U.S. military bases.

Currently, fewer than 25% of Thais in Iran have expressed a desire to return, citing confidence in their current safety. The Thai Embassy in Tehran, staffed by approximately 10 officials, remains safe but is considered a potential target area, prompting close monitoring by the Ministry.