Thailand: Five persons released from Hamas captivity return home

Sarusak Rumnao, 32, Watchara Sriaoun, 33, Sathian Suwannakham, 35, Pongsak Thaenna, 36, and Bannawat Saethao, 27, were released from captivity on January 30.

With tears in their eyes, the relatives embraced the five Thai nationals who remained in the captivity of Hamas since they were abducted on October 7, 2023.

Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa and the Israeli Ambassador to Thailand Orna Sagiv were present at the airport to welcome the five men.

Pongsak Thaenna told BBC: "I don't know how to put it into words."

"We wouldn't be here without you helping us. We're very touched and very glad to have returned to our homeland. I am truly grateful," he said.

Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa says it was an 'overjoying' moment

Thailand Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said he was overjoyed to see the five persons returning home and reuniting with their family members.

"Truly overjoyed to see the 5 recently released Thai hostages arrive home in Thailand and reunite with their families today. Going forward, relevant agencies will continue to provide any assistance and facilitation necessary to these Thai nationals for their full recovery," he posted on X.

"There is nothing more important than to protect our nationals abroad and I thank the friendly countries and all of those involved for their critical role and cooperation with this mission," he said.

Bannawat's wife  Wiayada Saethao described the 15 months when her husband was in captivity as a period of suffering.

"Don't be afraid anymore. We're home now. We're in Thailand. We're going back home," she told BBC.

According to reports, the five Thai nationals spent their last five days in an Israeli hospital where their health condition was monitored.

One of the Thai hostages still remain unaccounted for.

Latest release

Hamas on Saturday released three hostages who remained in their captivity since the October 7 attacks, marking the latest development in the Gaza ceasefire deal which was reached on January 19.

Israel is expected to release 183 prisoners from their prison as part of the deal.

So far, 383 prisoners have been released, with 1,900 expected in total, BBC reported.