As Israeli teams continue their work in the areas affected by recent attacks, the reports of horror are unrelenting: images of unimaginable atrocities, including beheaded infants, charred bodies, women subjected to heinous acts of violence, and more. The death toll has tragically surpassed 1,300 people.
From Gaza, the attacks persist, with over 6,300 missiles aimed at densely populated Israeli areas. Concurrently, there have been incidents involving mortar shells and anti-tank missiles launched by Hezbollah in the North.
The victims of these horrendous attacks come from all walks of life – varying nationalities, ethnicities, religions, and races. They include German women celebrating at a festival, American teenagers residing in Israel, Israeli Muslim Bedouins, Nepali foreign workers, and, of course, many Israelis - men, women, children and babies, old people, people with disabilities, young girls and boys. Hamas-ISIS did not have mercy on anyone.
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) are currently engaged in an operation in Gaza with the goal of permanently dismantling Hamas. Regrettably, Hamas, known for its cruelty, continues to use Gaza's civilian population as human shields, compelling them to remain in the conflict zone despite Israel's repeated calls for their evacuation. Israel is committed to doing everything within its power to prevent harm to innocent civilians and holds Hamas accountable for the casualties caused by its actions.
Regrettably, Thai nationals have been among the hardest hit by this wave of terror. Out of the 30,000 Thai nationals living and working in Israel, approximately 760 were in the area under attack. Tragically, at least 24 of them lost their lives, and many others were injured or taken hostage to Gaza.
In a meeting between the Israeli Ambassador to Thailand and the Prime Minister of Thailand on Friday, October 13, Ms. Sagiv assured His Excellency that Thai workers would receive the same treatment as Israeli citizens. This includes their safe evacuation from the affected areas, access to healthcare and mental health support, as well as financial compensation for the families of those who lost their lives or were injured due to the inhumane terror attack by Hamas terrorists.
Ambassador Sagiv also assured His Excellency that Israel would provide any necessary support for the evacuation of Thai workers who wish to return home. "We are committed to providing any assistance required, including help in obtaining landing permits and arranging the safe transport of workers from conflict zones. A military officer has been assigned to accompany the Thai Air Force crew upon their arrival in Israel to address any issues that may arise," stated Amb. Sagiv.
“Times like these reveal our true character. The numerous stories of Thais in Israel helping those who have been evacuated offer a ray of hope," Ambassador Sagiv remarked. "We have seen heartwarming photos and videos of Thai restaurants preparing meals for those in need, Thai students hosting evacuated workers at their universities, Thai workers living with Israeli farmers' families and aiding in the rebuilding of villages. I even heard of a Thai worker who voluntarily donated all his earnings to support the Israeli Defence Forces," Sagiv added.
These are challenging times, but Israel will emerge stronger, and so will the Israeli-Thai relationship, which remains stronger than ever.