Seventeen Thai hostages who were freed by Hamas are scheduled to arrive in Thailand around noon but experienced a 3-hour flight delay.
They were scheduled to return to Thailand on El Al Flight LY 081, originally set to arrive at 12:15 PM. However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently announced a three-hour delay in the flight schedule.
At Gate 10, where a press conference was scheduled to take place, officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Labor have begun preparations for welcoming the group.
Upon their arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport, they will undergo health screenings at the immigration checkpoint. If relatives are present, they will be allowed to exit through Gate 4. In case no relatives are available for pickup, a bus will transport the workers to the bus station or Don Mueang Airport for a convenient return to their homes.
Besides officials, some relatives have started to arrive to await the return of their family members.
In terms of benefits for assistance in times of war, the individuals will receive compensation from the government, amounting to 15,000 baht. If the laborers face physical or mental health issues, additional assistance of 30,000 baht will be provided, following the regulations on labor and rehabilitation from Israel.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, out of all 32 Thai hostages, 23 Thai workers have been freed, including the 17 expected to return on Thursday and six others are still in Israel.
It is anticipated that nine Thai national are still in captivity, awaiting assistance.-819 (TNA)
