Further hostage releases must wait for next ceasefire : PM

File photo : PM Srettha Thavisin//Photo : PM’s FB

The next release of Thai nationals from Hamas custody may have to wait for the next ceasefire in Gaza, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Tuesday.

“There is no more good news on the matter. For the safety of the hostages to be freed, the fighting has to be suspended,” Srettha said, adding the Thai government will not stop negotiating to secure the freedom of the remaining Thai nationals, he added.

Thailand believes that 8 or 9 Thais are still being held hostage by Hamas.

Twenty-three Thais were released during the temporary cessation of fighting between Israel and Hamas last week, but fighting resumed minutes after the truce expired on Friday.

Srettha added that he will meet Gen Songwit Noonpackdee, chief of defence forces, at Government House to discuss various issues, including the Thai hostages.