**JERUSALEM** – In a significant development, two Israeli and five Thai hostages were released by Palestinian militants in Gaza and are now safely in Israeli territory, according to the Israeli military on Thursday.
The Thai nationals have been identified as Thenna Pongsak, Sathian Suwannakhan, Sriaoun Watchara, Seathao Bannawat, and Rumnao Surasak.
After a tumultuous handover, these individuals will be received by Thai government officials at a designated reception point near Gaza.
The mother of one of the hostages, Wiwwaeo Sriaoun, expressed her joy upon hearing the news of her son Watchara’s release: “It is confirmed everyone, my son did not die. Thank you God,” she declared. She added, “I will hug him when I see him. I want to see if his health is ok, I am worried about his health.”
About ten family members gathered at Wiwwaeo’s home in northeastern Udon Thani, providing support and eagerly awaiting updates.
Originally from rural Udon Thani, Watchara had relocated to Israel three years ago in search of better wages as a farm worker.
Elated Families Await News
Before receiving confirmation of her son’s release, Wiwwaeo was glued to news updates, anxiously hoping for a positive outcome. She recounted, “My friend called around 10pm and said the ambassador told her five Thais will be released, and my friend said my son could be one. I could not sleep from then until now.”
Following Watchara’s capture, his younger brother returned to Thailand due to family concerns for his safety.
His aunt expressed cautious optimism: “His siblings at home are thrilled and excited, but we’ve faced disappointment many times before.”
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her joy upon receiving confirmation of the hostages’ release. “Elated to get confirmation from our Thai Ambassador in Israel that five of our Thai nationals were indeed released today from Gaza,” she stated, thanking those involved in securing their freedom.
The Thai government has announced that the released hostages will be taken to a hospital for necessary medical treatment. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated its commitment to securing the release of all remaining hostages.
A total of 31 Thais were initially captured during Hamas’s assault on Israel, with some released over time and others unfortunately confirmed dead.
With approximately 30,000 Thai citizens working in Israel, mainly in agriculture, there is a strong desire for their safe return amidst ongoing concerns for their security.
The Ministry of Labour recently revealed plans to expand its workforce in Israel by 13,000 positions, reflecting the demand for Thai workers in the region.
