Bangkok: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced measures to assist Thai nationals in the Middle East, particularly in Iran and Israel, amid escalating tensions between the two countries. The Ministry is expediting the deployment of additional personnel from the central government to support these efforts.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been closely monitoring the situation since June 13, 2025, leading to the establishment of a Rapid Response Center (RRC). This center is coordinating with various agencies such as the Air Force, Ministry of Labor, and embassies in the Middle East to assess the situation and prepare assistance plans for Thais in the region. Currently, there are no reports of injuries among Thai nationals in either Iran or Israel.
In Iran, there are approximately 350 Thai nationals. The Royal Thai Embassy in Tehran, in collaboration with the President of the Thai Community, has set up a temporary shelter in Amol, roughly 200 kilometers northeast of Tehran. This center can accommodate at least 200 Thais, with 35 currently residing there. The Embassy has encouraged Thais to leave Tehran and either stay at the shelter or with relatives in safer areas. Approximately 100 Thai students in Qom, 150 kilometers south of Tehran, are reported to be safe, with the Embassy maintaining contact with student representatives.
Given the high-risk situation in Tehran, the Royal Thai Embassy has temporarily relocated its office to Kordan, 60 kilometers north of Tehran, to minimize travel risks for services. Thais in need can reach the embassy's emergency contact number around the clock. The embassy is also coordinating with Thais who wish to return to Thailand, with five individuals currently expressing this intention. A land travel plan to neighboring countries has been prepared for those who decide to leave.
In Israel, approximately 40,000 Thais reside throughout the country. The Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv has set up a helpline for inquiries regarding travel abroad. While a few Thais have expressed a desire to return to Thailand, most prefer to remain. Emergency contact information is available for Thais in Israel, and a land travel plan to neighboring countries is in place.
The Ministry is dispatching additional personnel to support the embassies in Iran and Israel, ensuring efficient operations. The Department of Consular Affairs has launched the Thai Consular application for easy access to news and communication with local embassies. An emergency contact number is available for assistance or inquiries.
Daily meetings are being held by the Ministry with relevant embassies to track developments and prepare assistance for Thais as situations evolve. The Ministry advises against unnecessary travel to affected areas, urging those who can leave safely to do so. While the current focus is on relocation to safer areas, an evacuation is not yet underway.