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Hamas Freed 5 Thai Hostages, One Still Held Captive in Gaza

The current situation for the only Thai hostage left in Gaza remains uncertain despite the recent release of five others, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated.

Maris Sangiampongsa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, has assured that the government is making every effort to facilitate the release of the hostage, Nattapong Pinta from Phrae province.

He reported that the Israeli foreign minister congratulated him on the successful release of the five hostages and discussed ongoing efforts to secure Mr. Nattapong’s release and the return of the deceased Thai hostages.

“Based on available information and discussions with other countries, we cannot yet confirm his status,” Mr. Maris said.

“Everyone involved is determined to bring him home, and we will not stop until he is released.”

The Israeli foreign minister explicitly acknowledged Mr. Nattapong by name, highlighting the importance of this issue to Israel.

A number of countries including Qatar, Egypt, Iran, Turkey, the US, and Israel, have shown their support for Thailand’s efforts in the release of the hostages.

Mr. Maris expressed gratitude towards these nations for their support. He plans to visit Israel on Sunday to meet with the released hostages and coordinate their repatriation.

The ministry has reported that the five released Thais — Watchara Sriaou, Pongsak Thaenna, Sathian Suwannakham, Surasak Rumnao, and Bannawat Saethao — are now being treated in an Israeli hospital.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra shared on X her joy over the release of five Thai nationals, confirmed by the Thai ambassador in Israel.

“The Thai government, along with everyone in Thailand, has long awaited this moment. We deeply appreciate the efforts of Qatar, Egypt, Iran, Turkey, the US, and other friendly nations, as well as the ICRC, and thank Israel for facilitating their return.”

“I have instructed Thai agencies to work closely with Israeli authorities to ensure their swift and safe journey home.”

“I remain hopeful that the last Thai hostage will also be released soon,” the Prime Minister added.

Nikorndej Balankura, a spokesman for the foreign ministry, confirmed the released hostages are receiving medical care in an Israeli hospital after being held captive for 15 months by Hamas.

Officials from the Thai embassy in Tel Aviv have notified the families about their release.

The attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023, led to 46 Thai workers losing their lives and 31 being taken hostage.

Two of the hostages were subsequently confirmed deceased, and 23 had been released by the year’s end.

With the recent releases, the total number of freed Thai hostages has risen to 28.

The Israeli Embassy in Thailand issued a statement confirming the release of five Thai hostages. The embassy detailed that the five were handed over to Israeli custody and are in the process of being moved to safety.

It was also stated that the released Thai hostages would receive medical support and assistance from Israeli medical teams.

The embassy noted that the five would be moved to treatment facilities in Israel for initial medical evaluation and care.

“Since the outbreak of the war, Israel has done everything in its power to free both Israeli and foreign national hostages. We are pleased that the release of the Thai hostages is possible at this time,” it said.

The embassy also noted that Israel would continue to assist the Thai victims and the families of those impacted by the October 7 massacre and the ensuing conflict.

“I am very happy to see the five Thai nationals returning today from Hamas’s captivity. Our thoughts remain with the families of those still being held hostage in Gaza, and we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to securing their freedom,” stated Orna Sagiv, the Israeli Ambassador.”