Thai FM to accompany released Hamas hostages back to Thailand

The third group of Thais released by Hamas is welcomed by those released earlier. //FB

Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara has left for Israel to accompany 17 Thai nationals, recently freed by Hamas, back to Thailand, according to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on Tuesday.

Parnpree left Bangkok at about 3am, Srettha said before chairing his Cabinet weekly meeting.

The Thai government believes that 35 Thais were taken hostage by Hamas on October 7, during its raid on Israel. After weeks of negotiation, Hamas has agreed to free 17 of them in three groups.

Meanwhile, the Thai Foreign Ministry reports that the Thai nationals are due to arrive in Bangkok on Thursday at about noon.