BANGKOK: Five Thai farm workers held hostage in Gaza for over a year arrived in Bangkok yesterday, greeted by tearful families.
Released on January 30 as part of a ceasefire deal, they landed at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 7.30 am (0030 GMT).
The five — Watchara Sriaoun, Pongsak Tanna, Sathian Suwannakham, Surasak Lamnau, and Bannawat Saethao—smiled as they reunited with their families. Pongsak expressed gratitude, saying, “We wouldn’t be here today without the help we received.”
Bannawat’s father, Somboon, said they would welcome him home with a traditional ceremony.
Bannawat had moved to Israel nine months before his abduction to support his family.
Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa called their return “inspiring,” adding that officials would monitor their reintegration, focusing on mental health.
The five will receive a one-time payment of $18,000 and a monthly salary of $900 until the age of 80. Of the 31 Thais abducted during the October 7 attack, 23 were released by year’s end, with two confirmed dead in May.
One Thai national remains unaccounted for.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed relief at their return, thanking Israel and other countries involved in securing the release.
Thailand’s labour ministry also announced an expansion of its workforce in Israel by 13,000. – AFP
