The conflict between Israel and Hamas militants has taken a devastating toll on Thai nationals, with twelve killed and eleven kidnapped. Additionally, eight Thai nationals have been injured in the ongoing unrest. The Thai foreign ministry has stated that air force planes are on standby to transport its citizens back home. Thailand has a substantial population of around 30,000 nationals in Israel, working in various industries like nursing and construction, alongside individuals from over 50 different countries.
Labour minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn revealed that approximately 5,000 Thai laborers work within the fighting zone; however, Israeli forces have initiated efforts to relocate them to safer areas. Around 1,099 workers have already registered to return home. Horrifying accounts have emerged from witnesses, such as those working at a farm in Mivtahim, a town near the Gaza Strip. They described how Hamas militants attacked their farm after rockets were fired on Saturday, leading to a chaotic and perilous situation. Some workers had to run and hide to protect themselves, while others suffered injuries and were taken captive by the militants.
One survivor, Udomporn Champahom, shared his harrowing experience, recounting how he had to hide in his bedroom after the farm was stormed by militants. Israeli soldiers ultimately rescued him, but his companions were not as fortunate. Another worker, who chose to remain anonymous, revealed that he managed to escape after Hamas militants pulled him out from underneath a truck and threatened him at gunpoint. Unfortunately, Anucha Angkaew, a laborer working on an avocado farm, was among those taken captive and appeared in a video released by Hamas. His wife, Wanida Armasa, confirmed his identity but has been unable to contact him since the incident.
This tragic event has not only affected Thai nationals but also citizens from various other countries. Nepal reported that ten of its tertiary students were killed while working in Israel to gain expertise in an agricultural firm. Additionally, 265 Nepali students are currently employed on Israeli farms, along with 4,500 Nepalis working as caregivers. Israeli police have informed the Nepali Embassy that one citizen is missing and four others have been injured, one of them severely. India, meanwhile, is actively working to repatriate its nationals in Israel, as an estimated 18,000 Indians reside and work in the country.
The ongoing unrest in Israel has resulted in the loss of innocent lives, both from Israeli and foreign backgrounds. It highlights the need for immediate action to ensure the safety of workers and citizens in conflict zones. International collaboration and support are crucial in addressing this crisis and safeguarding the lives of those affected. Governments must work together to devise strategies to prevent further loss of life and secure the safe return of their nationals from this volatile situation.
