Following more than a year in captivity in the Gaza Strip, five Thai hostages were released in an emotional exchange on Thursday. The hostages, who were kidnapped from southern Israel in October 2023, were greeted by a jubilant crowd of Israeli doctors, nurses, and officials as they arrived at a hospital outside Tel Aviv for medical evaluation and recovery.
The release of the Thai hostages was part of a larger exchange that also saw the release of three Israelis and 110 Palestinian prisoners. The hostages, who had been held underground and deprived of sunlight for extended periods, were described as being in fair health by medical professionals.
During the assault on southern Israel, Hamas militants kidnapped a total of 31 Thai nationals, making them the largest group of foreigners held captive. Tragically, 46 Thais have lost their lives during the conflict, including two individuals whose bodies were taken into Gaza.
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed gratitude to several countries and organizations for their role in negotiating the release of the hostages. She also announced plans for Thailand's minister of foreign affairs to travel to Israel to assist in the repatriation process.
Israel has committed to recognizing the released Thai hostages as terror victims, ensuring they receive financial benefits and healthcare support. The government also aims to secure the release of all remaining hostages, including one Thai, one Nepali, and one Tanzanian individual, as well as the bodies of two Thais and one Tanzanian still held in Gaza.
As the released hostages prepare to return home, efforts are underway to facilitate their reunion with family members and former employers. The international community, including Israel and Hamas, is set to engage in further discussions regarding the remaining hostages in the coming weeks.
