Gaza Hostages: Five Thais Return Home, Swear Off Foreign Work
After 15 grueling months of captivity in Gaza at the hands of Hamas, five Thai nationals have returned home. Their ordeal concluded with emotional reunions and a resolute vow never to seek employment overseas. Their release marks a poignant chapter in a saga that began with the devastating Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, which tragically claimed the lives of 46 Thai workers and resulted in 31 abductions.
Welcomed home by overjoyed families and local officials, the five returnees shared their experiences, describing a period of uncertainty and isolation, though they reported no physical abuse. Sathien Suwannakham, 36, from Nong Bua Lam Phu, speaking after receiving a family support fund from the Department of Labour, described their daily routine of three meals a day and their persistent hope for freedom, despite being completely cut off from the outside world. Safely back in Thailand, he expressed relief, emphasizing his desire to save money, build a house on his own land, and remain in his home country.
Echoing Mr. Suwannakham’s sentiment, Bannawat Saethao, from Nan province, also confirmed his intention to stay in Thailand. He shared plans to embrace sustainable farming, a stark contrast to the precarious life of a migrant worker. Upon his return, Mr. Saethao was greeted with a traditional welcome ceremony, including a visit to the City Pillar at Wat Ming Muang and a blessing from a deputy provincial abbot. These culturally significant rituals symbolize cleansing and renewal after hardship.
In Udon Thani, the homecoming of Surasak Rumnao, 30, was marked by a joyous family celebration. His mother, Khammee Rumnao, described the agonizing 15 months she spent fearing she would never see her son again. Now, with his safe return, the family plans to fulfill vows made at ten different temples, expressing gratitude to holy spirits. Mr. Rumnao intends to be ordained as a monk, a common practice in Thailand expressing deep gratitude and seeking spiritual merit.
The return of these five men brings the number of freed hostages to 28, a testament to ongoing diplomatic efforts. Tragically, two of the initially abducted individuals, Sonthaya Akkharasri from Nong Bua Lam Phu and Sudthisak Rinthalak from Nong Khai, were confirmed dead. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with Israeli authorities, continues to work towards the liberation of the final remaining hostage, who is reportedly alive and well.
This incident highlights the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers seeking better opportunities abroad. While the specific details of their employment in Israel remain unclear, the tragic events surrounding the Hamas attacks serve as a grim reminder of the risks they often encounter. The returnees' determination to remain in Thailand reflects not only the trauma of their captivity but also a broader desire for stability and security at home. The long-term impact of this incident on Thai migrant workers and their families remains to be seen, but their harrowing experience will undoubtedly resonate deeply within their communities for years to come. The hope now is for the swift and safe return of the final captive, bringing closure to this difficult chapter.
