Bangkok: Prime Minister Srisaket Sihasak has disclosed discussions with the Iranian Foreign Minister, who has pledged to assist in the search for three missing Thai crew members. Sihasak reiterated Thailand's commitment to peace in the Middle East and stressed the importance of diplomatic negotiations to mitigate violence, while affirming the government's urgent search for new oil sources.
According to Thai News Agency, Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaew addressed the situation involving the Thai cruise ship "Mayureenari," revealing that the Iranian Ambassador to Thailand was summoned to protest the violent incident against the ship and its crew. The ship, carrying general cargo, was not transporting military supplies, and Sihasak highlighted that, under international law, Iran had no grounds for interference in the Strait of Hormuz. The immediate focus remains on assisting the Thai crew members. Cooperation with Oman and the UAE enabled the safe return of twenty crew members, who were facilitated through Oman and flown back to Thailand from Muscat.
Efforts continue for the three Thai crew members still unaccounted for. A call to the Iranian Foreign Minister resulted in promises to coordinate with the Iranian Navy to aid in the search, although the Iranian Minister expressed that the ongoing conflict necessitates cautious monitoring of the situation.
Thailand has reached out to Oman and the Iranian Navy for further cooperation. Sihasak also communicated with Bahrain and the UAE, expressing concerns over the regional conflict and reiterating Thailand's desire for peaceful resolution. Thailand expressed gratitude to the GCC countries for aiding in the safe return of its citizens.
Addressing energy concerns amid regional instability, Sihasak noted that Thailand has sufficient oil reserves for 95-100 days. With the uncertain conflict, the Prime Minister urges exploration of alternative oil sources. Thailand has initiated contact with Russia, which has agreed to supply oil. Discussions are ongoing with the United States, Brazil, Nigeria, and Kazakhstan to secure additional energy supplies.