Israel Grants Residency to Released Thai Hostages

In a significant diplomatic move, Israel’s Interior Minister Moshe Arbel met with Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa on Sunday, following the release of five Thai nationals who had been held captive in Gaza since October 7. The five individuals, who had been kidnapped during the attacks, were granted Israeli resident status as a gesture of goodwill and solidarity. This announcement comes as part of an ongoing effort to reinforce the relationship between Israel and Thailand, with plans to expand cooperation beyond the current sectors of home care and agriculture.

Arbel emphasized the need for international unity against Hamas, labeling the group as a proxy of Iran with the goal of harming both Jews and non-Jews alike. "Today, we grant residency to Thai workers, and this is the least we can do for those who have decided to link their fate with the State of Israel," Arbel stated.

While this move was welcomed by many, it faced backlash from anti-immigration activists who criticized the decision, calling it detrimental to Israel’s internal affairs. Critics argued that offering residency could trap the Thai nationals in Israel, preventing their return to their homeland where they are often the primary breadwinners for their families.

The five Thai nationals to be granted residency are Thenna Pongsak (36), Sathian Suwannakham (35), Sriaoun Watchara (33), Seathao Bannawat (27), and Rumnao Surasak (32). However, one Thai citizen, Pinta Nattapong (35), remains in captivity. In addition, two Thai nationals—Rintalak Suttisak (43) and Sahaot Banawat (30)—were tragically killed in the October 7 attacks and their bodies are still held by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ).

Further complicating the situation, Israel has been working to negotiate the release of additional foreign nationals still in captivity. Among them are Joshi Bipin, a Nepalese citizen, and Tanzanian national Joshua Luito Mollel, who are also being held by Hamas and PIJ.

As the Thai foreign minister visits Israel, an Israeli delegation has traveled to Bangkok to continue strengthening the bilateral ties between the two nations. The hope is to build on this momentum and create more opportunities for mutual cooperation.