After enduring 15 months in captivity under Hamas, five Thai nationals have finally returned home to Thailand. Their release last month came as part of a hostage-prisoner exchange deal negotiated between Israel and the Palestinian militant group.
The emotional reunion at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport marked a significant moment for the families who had been waiting for their loved ones with hope and resilience.
The Journey Home: A Long-Awaited Reunion
The five men—Sarusak Rumnao, Watchara Sriaoun, Sathian Suwannakham, Pongsak Thaenna, and Bannawat Saethao—were among the Thai workers caught in the crossfire when Hamas launched a deadly attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
Thailand suffered one of the highest foreign national casualties in that attack, with 46 Thai workers killed. Additionally, 31 were taken hostage and transported to Gaza. The recent release of these five men has been a rare moment of relief in an otherwise harrowing ordeal.
Upon arrival in Bangkok, the freed hostages were met with overwhelming emotions from their families and Thai officials, including Foreign Minister Maris Sagniampongsa and Israeli Ambassador to Thailand Orna Sagiv. The moment was filled with tears, embraces, and gratitude as the men were finally reunited with their loved ones.
The Impact of the October 7 Attack on Thai Nationals
The attack by Hamas on October 7 was one of the deadliest incidents for foreign workers in Israel. Thai nationals, who primarily work in the agricultural sector, were disproportionately affected due to their presence in farming communities near the conflict zones. Many were either killed or taken hostage in the sudden and brutal onslaught.
Of the 31 Thai hostages taken, 23 were released during a ceasefire in November 2023. However, two others were later confirmed dead, leaving just six Thai nationals unaccounted for until the latest release.
Read : Eight of the 33 Hostages Due for Release in First Phase of Gaza Ceasefire Deal Are Dead
The status of the remaining hostage, Nattapong Pingsa, remains unclear, and Hamas continues to hold the bodies of the two deceased Thai hostages.
Five more Thai hostages held in Gaza by Hamas have returned to Thailand. They were on an Emirates flight that arrived shortly after 7am this morning. Emotional scenes as family reunited here at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok. Foreign Minister also here. Report to come later. pic.twitter.com/GhMRWj4GKA
— Tommy Walker (@tommywalkerco) February 9, 2025
In addition to the Thai hostages, Hamas is also holding a Nepalese agricultural student, Bipin Joshi, as well as the body of a Tanzanian student, Joshua Mollel, who has been confirmed dead.
The Future for Thai Workers in Israel
Thailand has long been a significant supplier of labor to Israel, particularly in agriculture. With a population of around 9 million, Israel relies heavily on foreign workers to support its economy. The demand for Thai laborers has grown over the years, especially after Israel reduced its reliance on Palestinian workers following past conflicts.
Before the October 7 attack, approximately 25,000 Thai workers were employed in Israel. Despite the security concerns and the harrowing experiences of those caught in the Hamas attack, the number of Thai workers in Israel has now risen to 38,000.
The Thai government has acknowledged the risks but continues to support employment opportunities in Israel due to the higher wages offered compared to domestic jobs.
Thailand’s ambassador to Israel, Pannabha Chandraramya, expressed gratitude for the safe return of the hostages while recognizing the resilience of Thai workers who have chosen to remain or return to Israel despite the conflict. She emphasized their crucial role in Israel’s agricultural sector, noting that they work “tirelessly on the farms and in kibbutzim.”
Israel, on the other hand, has been making efforts to attract foreign workers from other countries, including India, as it continues to rebuild its labor force after the October attack led to an exodus of workers. The Israeli government has also introduced higher wages and incentives to encourage workers to stay.
As the freed Thai hostages begin their journey of recovery and reintegration into society, their story serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by foreign workers in conflict zones. The Thai government has pledged ongoing support to those affected and continues to monitor the status of the remaining hostage still held by Hamas.
For the families of those who have not yet returned, the wait continues, with hope that diplomacy will eventually bring them home safely.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏