🗓️ Monday, March 16, 2026
📍 Bangkok, Thailand

20 Thai Crew to Return Home on March 16, Search Continues for Three Missing

The Thai government is working to help its citizens affected by the ongoing Middle East conflict. Twenty Thai crew members, rescued from Khasab, are scheduled to return to Thailand on March 16, but the search for three missing crew members continues.

Situation in the Middle East

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) reported that the conflict in the Middle East is worsening, with attacks moving beyond military targets. Iran has intensified its attacks on energy infrastructure, shipping, and cyber systems linked to the U.S. and Israel. Fighting is also heavy in Iraq, and the Israeli military and Hezbollah are still exchanging strikes. The government is urging Thai nationals to leave high-risk areas as soon as possible.

ASEAN Meeting on the Middle East

On March 13, Thailand’s Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, attended a special ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting on the situation. The meeting emphasized the need to end the violence and return to diplomacy, highlighting the importance of international law, especially regarding air and sea travel.

Thai Crew Members' Return

The 20 crew members rescued from Khasab in Oman will arrive in Thailand on March 16. The Thai Embassy in Muscat has provided emergency travel documents to all crew members, allowing them to travel through Oman and the UAE to return home. Omani authorities are helping with border procedures to ensure a smooth journey.

Ongoing Search for Missing Crew

Efforts to locate the three missing crew members are still ongoing. The MFA, Thai Navy, and Embassy in Muscat are working together to support the search-and-rescue operations.

Likely Pre-War Ship Route

It’s possible that the Thai cargo vessel was already at sea before the conflict escalated. Ships often follow scheduled routes and may not have been aware of the growing danger in the region. The situation in the Middle East has changed rapidly, and attacks on energy infrastructure, shipping, and other targets have only increased in recent days. If the ship had been at sea before the war intensified, the crew might not have had full knowledge of the risks until they entered a more dangerous area, like the Strait of Hormuz.

Assistance for Thai Nationals in the Region

The final group of seven Thai nationals left Iran and arrived safely in Thailand on March 14. In Israel, the Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv has issued safety instructions for Thai nationals, urging them to take shelter immediately if sirens sound and avoid traveling near the northern border.

Total Thai Nationals Assisted

Since the conflict began, a total of 591 Thai nationals have been helped to leave danger areas. The Thai government remains committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens in the region.