Bangkok: The Prime Minister has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Labor to remain vigilant regarding the safety of Thai nationals in Israel and Iran, and to prepare for their immediate evacuation if necessary. This directive comes despite assurances that no Thais have been harmed in recent regional conflicts. Meanwhile, attention is also focused on the Thai-Cambodian border, where a new “Committee on Border Patrol” has been formed to address ongoing tensions, with its inaugural meeting set for today at 1:30 p.m.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, the spokesman for the Prime Minister’s Office, reported that during the Cabinet meeting, the status of Thai citizens in Israel and Iran was a key topic. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Labor are actively coordinating with embassies in both countries to ensure readiness for a potential evacuation. The Prime Minister has emphasized the need for constant vigilance, even though no injuries to Thais have been reported.
In parallel, General Nattapol Nakphanit, Deputy Minister of Defense, provided an update on efforts to manage border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. The Prime Minister had previously directed military officials to address issues at both the operational and border levels. To expedite resolution, the Special Operations Center for the Administration of the Situation on the Thai-Cambodian Border (SOC) has been established. This initiative aims to integrate the efforts of relevant agencies to peacefully resolve conflicts, respecting bilateral principles and sovereignty while ensuring accurate public information dissemination.
The SOC will comprise senior officials from various governmental departments, including defense, foreign affairs, interior, and commerce, along with key military and police leaders. This body is tasked with monitoring the border situation, providing strategy suggestions, and coordinating a unified response. The SOC also has the authority to form subcommittees and working groups to enhance its operational effectiveness. Regular updates will be provided to the National Security Council, the Prime Minister, and the Cabinet.
Mr. Jirayu emphasized the SOC’s role in ensuring a peaceful resolution to border tensions, maintaining mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity between Thailand and Cambodia. The committee’s work will align with the overarching goal of restoring normalcy and fostering friendly bilateral relations. The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) Committee will convene its first meeting today to further discuss these matters.