In a commendable effort to bring home stranded Thai nationals from Israel, the Royal Air Force (RAF) embarked on a series of successful evacuation missions in coordination with various government ministries and departments.
The first round of the mission took off from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport on the night of October 14, 2023, bound for Tel Aviv, Israel. This mission, which included essential provisions, aimed to evacuate Thai nationals and provide much-needed assistance to those in distress. Representatives from the RAF, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), and the Ministry of Labour were on board to ensure the operation’s smooth execution.
On October 16, the third batch of 90 Thai nationals from Israel touched down at U-Tapao Airport in Thailand. These repatriated citizens were warmly received by their relatives at SC Park Hotel before reuniting with their families in their respective hometowns. The welcoming committee included officials from the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry to the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Department of Foreign Ministry (DFM).
Two days later, on October 16, a group of 130 Thai nationals who had been part of the first RAF evacuation mission arrived safely in Thailand. They were greeted by officials from the Ministry of Defence and provided with various assistance measures by relevant agencies. The journey eventually led them to the Bamrasnaradura Institute, where they were joyfully reunited with their loved ones.
The fifth batch of 244 Thai nationals arrived safely in Thailand via an evacuation flight on the same day. Deputy Director General of Consular Affairs and other officials welcomed them upon their arrival. Most of these evacuees will be accommodated in Bangkok overnight, courtesy of the government, before continuing their journey to their respective hometowns the following day.
On October 17, the sixth batch of 162 Thai nationals returned to Thailand from Israel. This operation, like the previous ones, was meticulously coordinated, with the Director General of Consular Affairs overseeing the welcoming and facilitation of the returnees at Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Today, in yet another show of unwavering support for Thai nationals stranded in Israel, the seventh evacuation flight using Thai Airways brought 266 Thais safely back to their homeland. These evacuees arrived at 05:00 hours and were greeted by officers from the Consular Affairs Department and other relevant government agencies who offered assistance measures.
The Royal Air Force, in collaboration with various government ministries and departments, continues to demonstrate its dedication to ensuring the safe return of Thai nationals from Israel. These evacuation missions exemplify the Thai government’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens, especially in times of crisis, and they serve as a testament to the strength of international cooperation in times of need.