Five Thai farm workers who were held hostage by Hamas in Gaza for nearly 500 days have finally returned home, reuniting with their families in an emotional homecoming at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport on Sunday morning.

The freed hostages—Pongsak Thaenna, Sathian Suwannakham, Watchara Sriaoun, Bannawat Saethao, and Surasak Lamnao—were among those abducted during Hamas’s attacks in southern Israel on October 7, 2023. Their arrival was met with tearful embraces and heartfelt relief as they stepped back onto Thai soil.

An Emotional Reunion

“I don't know how to put it into words,” said Pongsak Thaenna, one of the released hostages. “We wouldn't be here without the help of so many people. We are very touched and incredibly grateful to be home.”

Thailand’s Foreign Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa, described the moment as “very inspiring,” praising the diplomatic efforts that led to their safe return. The hostages had spent the past 10 days in an Israeli hospital for medical evaluation before being flown back to Thailand.

For families, the reunion was an overwhelming moment. Somboon Saethao, father of Bannawat Saethao, expressed his joy. “I am so happy. We will welcome him home with a traditional Thai ceremony. I don't think I want him to be far from home again.”

Bannawat’s wife, Wiayada Saethao, recalled the hardship of the past 15 months. “It was a time of great suffering. But now I can finally tell him—don’t be afraid anymore. We’re home now.”

Government Support and Compensation

The Thai government has pledged financial assistance to the freed hostages. According to Boonsong Tapchaiyut, an official from the Ministry of Labour, each of the released workers will receive a one-time compensation of approximately £14,510 (600,000 Thai baht) and a monthly stipend of £725 until they reach the age of 80. This initiative aims to ensure they do not have to return to work in Israel.

Despite the joy of their return, one Thai hostage remains unaccounted for, and efforts continue to locate them.

Thailand’s Role in Securing the Release

The hostages' release on January 30 was achieved through extensive negotiations, with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra thanking Israel, Qatar, Egypt, Iran, Turkey, and the US for their roles in securing their freedom. She expressed her elation that they were out of captivity and reunited with their families.

Since the conflict began, 46 Thai workers have lost their lives—many during the initial Hamas attacks, while others were victims of rocket strikes by Hezbollah in Lebanon. Thailand, which has one of the largest migrant worker communities in Israel, has been deeply affected by the crisis.

Ongoing Conflict and Ceasefire Agreement

The release of the Thai hostages was separate from the ongoing ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Under the deal reached on January 19, Israel has so far released 566 Palestinian prisoners, while Hamas has freed 21 Israeli hostages. By the end of the initial ceasefire phase, a total of 33 hostages and 1,900 prisoners are expected to be released, though Israel has confirmed that eight of the hostages in this agreement are deceased.