In light of the rapidly evolving situation in Israel, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has expressed grave concern and urged Thai workers in Israel to make immediate decisions regarding their return home. Israel’s launch of ground operations has heightened fears of an even more intense and precarious situation in the near future.
To ensure the safety and well-being of Thai nationals in Israel, the Thai Government has taken proactive measures by establishing official contact points to facilitate their return.
Official Contact Points for Thai Nationals in Israel:
Location: David InterContinental
Address: Kaufmann Street 12, Tel Aviv-Yafo, 61501
Contact Numbers:
- Assistance Center: 050-443 8094
- Embassy: 055-271 2201, 053-245 2826, 054-636 8150
The government has increased its evacuation capacity, now being able to facilitate the return of approximately 800 Thai workers from Israel per day. However, it has come to the government’s attention that many who had initially registered for evacuation are reconsidering their decisions due to new offers from Israeli employers. These employers are extending the payment date from October 31 to November 10 and offering higher wages to persuade Thai workers to stay, as stated by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.
In response to this, Prime Minister Thavisin has expressed his intention to speak with Orna Sagiv, the Israeli Ambassador to Thailand, to understand why Israeli employers are altering payment dates and increasing wages. He firmly believes that financial incentives should not be used to persuade Thai workers to continue working amidst the ongoing conflict. He emphasized that the safety and well-being of Thai nationals are of paramount importance.
The Prime Minister encourages those who have decided to stay to reconsider their choices, as the potential ground attack by Israel on Gaza and the potential spread of the conflict to other countries in the region could make future evacuations more challenging. He emphasized, “If there is a ground attack, roads will be cut off, and no amount of money will be worth it.”
In addition to this, the labor and agriculture ministries are currently exploring additional compensation options and job opportunities for returning workers to provide them with more incentives to come back to Thailand. For those working in Israel without a valid working visa, the Prime Minister advised them to return to Thailand first, with the assurance that all other matters can be addressed later.
The Thai Government remains committed to the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad and will continue to take all necessary steps to ensure their security during these challenging times.
UN General Assembly Adopts Resolution on Protection of Civilians in Gaza Crisis
Amid the ongoing crisis in Gaza, the United Nations General Assembly has adopted a resolution focused on the “protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations.” The resolution, aimed at addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, received significant support from the international community.
Voting Result:
- FOR: 120 Countries
- AGAINST: 14 Countries
- ABSTAIN: 45 Countries
The adoption of this resolution demonstrates a broad international consensus on the importance of safeguarding the lives and well-being of civilians in conflict zones. It calls for a commitment to upholding legal and humanitarian obligations, promoting the delivery of humanitarian aid, and ensuring the protection of civilians who are affected by the ongoing crisis.
This development at the United Nations reflects the global community’s deep concern for the situation in Gaza and the pressing need for humanitarian action to alleviate suffering and protect innocent lives.