Thai Officials Visit Western Wall to Give Thanks After Hostage Release from Gaza

A high-ranking Thai government delegation visited the Western Wall in Jerusalem on Sunday, expressing gratitude for Israel’s unwavering support following the release of five Thai hostages from Hamas captivity in Gaza.

Led by Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, the delegation included Thailand’s military chief of staff, Gen. Songwit Nunphakdi, Deputy Foreign Minister Russ Jalichandra, and Ambassador to Israel Pannabha Chandraramya.

The officials were deeply moved upon learning about the continuous prayers at the Western Wall for the safe return of all hostages. They expressed appreciation for the warm embrace extended by the people of Israel toward Thailand and its citizens. At the conclusion of their visit, the delegation offered a silent prayer for those who had been freed and for those still held in captivity.

The five freed Thai nationals Thaenna Pongsak, Sathian Suwannakhan, Sriaoun Watchara, Saethao Bannawat, and Rumnao Surasak were among 31 foreign workers from Thailand kidnapped by Hamas-led terrorists during the brutal October 7 attack on southern Israel.

In a significant humanitarian gesture, Israeli Interior Minister Moshe Arbel has granted the released hostages residency status, allowing them to remain in Israel and work if they choose, following an initial recovery period at Shamir Medical Center in Be’er Ya’akov.

While the release of these individuals brings relief, at least one Thai national, Pinta Nattapong, 35, remains in Hamas captivity. Additionally, the bodies of two Thai citizens, Rintalak Suttisak, 43, and Sahaot Banawat, 30, are still being held by the terror group after they were murdered in Kibbutz Be’eri during the October 7 massacre.

The visit by Thailand’s senior officials highlights the strong bond between the two nations and the shared hope for the swift return of all hostages still held in Gaza. Israel remains committed to bringing every captive home.

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