On Sunday, five Thai nationals who were held captive by Hamas for over a year returned to Thailand, reuniting with their tearful families at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport.
The five returnees are Sathien Suwannakham, Pongsak Thaenna, Watchara Sriaoun, Surasak Rumnao, and Bannawat Saethao.
Wearing winter jackets, they were warmly embraced by their families upon arrival.
“I am indescribably happy to come back home again,” said Pongsak, expressing gratitude towards the government for his release.
“We are all deeply touched to return to our birthplace and standing here,” he added. “We are truly thankful.”
Pongsak Thaenna, one of the released Thai hostages, embraces his father and brother during their arrival in Thailand.
Bannawat’s wife, Wichayada Sae-yang, shared her joy at their reunion, stating she had prayed for his safe return amid their three young children’s constant questions about his absence.
His mother, Nukan Suwannakham, expressed her relief after tirelessly praying for a sign of her son’s well-being during his captivity.
Initial reports indicate that Hamas militants abducted at least 240 individuals during the deadly attack on October 7, 2023, which also resulted in the deaths of 41 Thai nationals and the kidnapping of 30 Thai laborers.
Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa accompanied the hostages back to Thailand and remarked on the emotional moments of their reunion with family members.
“This is emotional … to be embraced by their families,” he stated, highlighting the collective hope that remained strong among families and government officials throughout the ordeal.
Mr. Maris expressed concern for the mental health of the five men, pledging government support to help bring back additional hostages believed to still be held by Hamas, along with the remains of two Thai nationals.
“We will continue to work towards bringing them back,” he affirmed, recognizing the struggles faced by approximately 30,000 Thai laborers who sought work in Israel prior to the unrest.
The five released Thai hostages—Surasak Rumnao, Sathian Suwannakham, Bannawat Saethao, Watchara Sriaoun, and Pongsak Thaenna—arrived back in Thailand amid emotional celebrations.
