PM Paetongtarn makes video call to Thais released by Hamas
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Thai hostages released by Hamas in Gaza arriving at the Shamir Medical Centre in Israel on Jan 30.
PHOTO: AFP
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BANGKOK – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra held a video call on Feb 1 with five Thais who were released by Hamas
Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, who is in Israel, said that from their initial conversation, all five are in good spirits and grateful for the rescue efforts.
A representative of the released Thais expressed their heartfelt gratitude, saying that help from everyone has given them a new life, and they are deeply moved by the support.
Ms Paetongtarn told the five migrant workers she had been concerned about them since the incident began and had been closely monitoring the situation.
She said she was relieved to see them safe and acknowledged the great efforts made by all parties involved in their rescue.
After the conversation, she posted a message on social media platform X expressing her immense relief that all the hostages were released and safe.
She said the government has continually urged and coordinated with the Israeli authorities at all levels and on every occasion to facilitate their rescue, including efforts for Thais still in captivity.
She also instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure proper care for the physical and mental well-being of those who had been released.
Ms Paetongtarn also told the Thai Embassy in Israel to follow up on financial entitlements and benefits owed to the former hostages from both Israeli and Thai sources. These include 1,000 shekels (S$380) a month until the age of 67; 12,000 shekels per year, paid once a year between ages 67 and 80; 15,000 shekels per year, paid once a year from age 80 onwards; unpaid wages from Israeli employers; war-related repatriation aid of 15,000 baht (S$600) from the Overseas Employment Assistance Fund; and retirement benefits from Thailand’s social security system.
“The government remains fully committed to urgently tracking the release of the remaining Thai hostage and ensuring the swift return of the bodies of two Thai workers who passed away,” said Ms Paetongtarn. THE NATION/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
