Report Thailand on Standby for Evacuation as Middle East Tensions Escalate

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Photo courtesy of The Nation

 

In response to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is standing by, fully prepared to evacuate tens of thousands of Thai citizens. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced on June 17 that aircraft are ready and awaiting further instructions from coordinated local operations.

 

The Prime Minister assured that the Thai government has meticulously planned for the potential evacuation. “We are fully prepared. All agencies are synchronised and ready to act. We need to assess the readiness of our nationals on the ground, but once they confirm, we can issue an evacuation order immediately,” she stated.

 

The government has established a central support and coordination centre, bringing together the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Labour Ministry, and the military to implement emergency protocols effectively. This collaboration underscores the urgency and seriousness with which the Thai government is approaching the situation.

 

There are approximately 40,000 Thai workers currently residing in Israel, many of whom work in agriculture. These individuals are in regular communication with Thai authorities and have been briefed on emergency procedures to ensure their safety.

 

Beyond Israel, the Thai government is also focusing on Iran. Thai officials stationed there are mobilised and coordinating efforts to safeguard nationals. The Thai Embassy in Tehran has established a temporary shelter for Thai citizens, working closely with the Emergency Situation Coordination Centre at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to manage any emergencies.

 

This evacuation readiness is part of a broader response by global powers, including the United States and China, who have already initiated the evacuation of their citizens from the increasingly volatile region.

 

Prime Minister Shinawatra, leading the Pheu Thai Party, emphasised the importance of continuous monitoring of the situation. “The timing of any evacuation will depend heavily on the ongoing conditions on the ground and the preparedness of our nationals to move quickly,” she explained.

 

As regional tensions and airstrikes continue to rise, Thai officials are keeping a vigilant watch. The scenario remains fluid, and the authorities are committed to ensuring the safety and swift evacuation of Thai citizens should conditions worsen.

 

This heightened state of alertness reflects Thailand's proactive stance in safeguarding its citizens abroad amid the ongoing conflict, ensuring that all necessary measures are in place to respond swiftly and efficiently if the need arises.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-18