BANGKOK, Thailand – The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a meeting to assess the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, October 6. The ministry assured that evacuation plans are in place and prepared for any eventuality, while advising Thai citizens in the region to consider leaving before potential airspace closures.
Nikorndej Balankura, Director-General of the Department of Information and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, provided an update on the increasing violence in the Middle East, particularly the clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, and the potential for the situation to worsen. He emphasized that the ministry, along with the Thai Embassy in Riyadh, which is responsible for coordinating with Lebanon, is closely monitoring the situation and has been in constant communication with the Thai community in Lebanon.
The Thai Consular Department and the embassy have issued continuous warnings to Thai citizens and have been assisting those wishing to return to Thailand. The embassy has also encouraged families in high-risk areas to relocate to safer locations within Lebanon, primarily in Beirut. One Thai national and their family have already returned to Thailand, and arrangements are being made to assist five Thai massage parlor workers who have expressed a desire to return.
The spokesperson also noted that approximately 100 Thai nationals remain in Lebanon, many of whom have families and have settled in the country. Some have lost contact with their relatives in Thailand but are choosing to stay and monitor the situation. The Thai Embassy in Riyadh is working closely with the Thai Honorary Consulate in Lebanon to keep in regular contact with all Thai nationals and provide updates on developments.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that they have a comprehensive evacuation plan ready for any situation in Lebanon.
The ministry further advised that the situation remains tense and could escalate further. Thai citizens in high-risk areas are encouraged to consider leaving while flights are still available and airspace remains open. Those planning to travel to conflict zones, particularly northern Israel and Lebanon, are advised to avoid the area unless absolutely necessary. (TNA)
