Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Air Force Commander to prepare aircraft to evacuate Thai nationals stranded in Iran, placing all relevant agencies on 24-hour standby. The order was issued on 1 March 2026 as tensions in the Middle East escalate. The government said the safety of Thai citizens in high-risk countries is its top priority.
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In a Facebook post published at 01:40 on 1 March, Anutin warned that the conflict in the Middle East is likely to intensify and could affect the global economy, including Thailand. Although Thailand is not a party to the conflict, he noted that many thousands of Thai citizens live and work in countries across the region. He said Iran and Israel are of particular concern.
Anutin stated that he is coordinating closely with the Foreign Minister and the Air Force Commander to prepare aircraft for evacuation, with Iran identified as the first priority. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, under Minister Sihasak Puangketkaew, has established an operations centre to monitor developments and prepare assistance measures for Thai nationals. The Prime Minister said he is personally receiving reports and monitoring the situation from all security agencies.
He has directed the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Interior to be ready to support the operation at any time. All units have been ordered to remain on standby 24 hours a day, for when required. The measures are intended to ensure swift assistance and safe return for affected citizens.
The Prime Minister acknowledged that the crisis will inevitably impact Thailand’s economy, particularly during a period of recovery. He said the government will take every possible measure to minimise economic disruption. Anutin added that his administration would seek to turn the Middle East crisis into an opportunity for Thailand where possible.
ThaiRath reported he pledged that the government would do its utmost to ensure the success of the evacuation mission and deliver results as quickly as possible. Further updates are expected as authorities continue to assess conditions on the ground and coordinate with relevant agencies.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thairath 1 Mar 2026