Bangkok: Efforts are underway to bring Thai citizens in Iran back to Thailand; no one has been found to have suffered severe consequences so far. Anutin Charnvirakul revealed the results of a meeting on the Middle East situation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urging the repatriation of Thai citizens in Iran. He stated that embassies and consulates will be coordinated to facilitate the issuance of exit visas. He expressed confidence that Thai citizens in the area are in good spirits and that no one has been severely affected so far.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul chaired a meeting of the Situation Monitoring Center (War Room) to assess the tense situation in the Middle East, together with Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkaew and executives from the Ministry, as well as representatives from all Thai Embassies and Consulates General in the region. The purpose of the meeting was to receive updates on the developments and progress in caring for and assisting Thai citizens according to the situation in each country.
Mr. Anutin revealed after the meeting that he had instructed the public and officials in the area to take care of themselves, especially in Iran. He confirmed that he would expedite the process of bringing approximately 300 Thai citizens and government officials back to Thailand. He noted that the fact that there are fewer than 300 Thai citizens in Iran is fortunate, allowing for easier management of the relocation of those at risk. He emphasized the need to act as quickly as possible, and that one key factor in their safe return is the Thai government's urgent coordination to obtain Exit Visas without requiring them to wait for application forms, as the current government service system is unable to function normally. Therefore, they must do everything possible to bring Thai citizens back.
"My biggest concern is the safety of Thai people, but I've found that most Thais have been well-informed on how to behave. And, as those countries have strong economies, they tend to have correspondingly high levels of security measures. Nevertheless, we must bring Thais back, and I've instructed the ambassador to provide full assistance. If anyone wishes to return to Thailand, we must provide all necessary aid. However, currently, we find that less than 25% of those in the area wish to return, as Thais in the region remain confident that they can still live independently," Mr. Anutin added.
Regarding Israel, there are approximately 60,000 Thai citizens, but only 20 have expressed a desire to return. This number could increase at any time if the situation changes. However, based on his experience working as Minister of Interior and Deputy Prime Minister during the attacks in Israel two years ago, Mr. Anutin found the situation to be similar. Thai citizens engaged in agriculture are generally in safe zones, although some are located near the Gaza Strip. In that regard, the Royal Thai Embassy in Israel remains confident that Thai citizens are in good spirits and capable of taking care of themselves.
For those residing in the United Arab Emirates, some have already expressed a desire to return, and there are still many travel options available in the area. No problems have been encountered with repatriation so far. However, if any citizens from any country face travel difficulties, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will facilitate coordination to allow them to travel to other safe cities where airspace remains open, enabling them to return home.
According to the latest information, there are no reports of Thai citizens in the Middle East being severely affected. The Ministry will continue to monitor and assess the situation and prepare evacuation routes by land and air, taking into account safety and limitations due to airspace closures. The Ministry will also coordinate with relevant countries to ensure the smoothest possible assistance for Thai citizens and will hold daily press briefings to inform the public about the situation.
For Middle Eastern nationals residing in Thailand, their safety and living expenses will be taken care of. Anutin instructed security agencies on this matter during the National Security Council meeting, and responsibilities have already been assigned.