Thailand Facilitates Safe Return of 952 Citizens Amid Escalating Middle East Conflict

On March 16, 2026, the Middle East situation escalated with air strikes involving Iran, Israel, and Iraq. Thailand advises nationals in high-risk areas to leave and supports safe returns home.

Key Points

• On March 16, 2026, the Joint Management and Monitoring Center reported escalating tensions in the Middle East, with ongoing air strikes involving Iran, Israel, and Iraq. Iranian strikes targeted Gulf states, while the U.S. and Israeli efforts focused on Iranian military infrastructures.
• The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs cautioned nationals in high-risk areas to consider leaving and stay updated through embassies. Twenty crew members from the cargo vessel Mayuree Naree returned safely, with ongoing efforts to rescue three remaining members.
• Since the conflict’s start, 952 Thai nationals have returned home, with government coordination to assist those wishing to leave. Thailand urged all parties to exercise restraint and pursue diplomatic resolutions to the conflict.

On March 16, 2026, the Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East on March 16, 2026, reported that the situation in the Middle East continues to escalate, with ongoing exchanges of air strikes involving Iran, Israel, and Iraq. Iranian strikes have targeted infrastructure in several Gulf Cooperation Council member states, while the U.S. and Israeli strikes targeted military infrastructures in Iran.

​The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises Thai nationals in high-risk areas to consider leaving and to closely follow updates and guidance from Thai embassies and consulates.

Acting Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Panidone Pachimsawat also reported that twenty Thai crew members from the cargo vessel Mayuree Naree have safely returned to Thailand. He added that Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow has spoken by telephone with his Iranian counterpart to coordinate the rescue and assistance of the three remaining crew members and to discuss safe passage for Thai cargo vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

Since the conflict began, 952 Thai nationals have been assisted in returning home from the region. The government continues to coordinate among ministries, consulates, and embassies to support and facilitate Thai nationals, especially those wishing to return to Thailand.

​Thailand has also called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and resolve the conflict through dialogue and diplomatic means.

Source : Thailand Assists 952 Nationals Returning Home as Middle East Conflict Escalates

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