The Ministry of Foreign Affairs today reiterated its neutral stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict, stressing that its main concern is rescuing Thais trapped in the region.
Ministry spokesperson Kanjana Phatarachoke said that Thailand promotes peace.
“We do not support the use of force, but we support dialogue and giving diplomacy a chance to work. This has always been Thailand’s stance,” Kanjana said.
“When we say that we are neutral, we are neutral to the conflicting parties. We do not take sides, as we are not part of the conflict. However, we have principles that we must uphold: the protection of civilians and the respect for international humanitarian law.
“The government also attaches great importance to helping the Thai hostages who have not yet returned home. Thailand is still talking to friendly countries, using our ambassadors in countries that have influence, to help our Thai hostage brothers.”
Kanjana said that Thais in Israel have been affected by the conflict, noting that 38 Thai workers have been killed, 18 injured, and 32 taken hostage. Eight of them have not yet returned home.
International pressure is mounting on Israel and the US. On Dec. 12, the United Nations General Assembly held an emergency special session in New York City. The meeting called for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages, as well as for all parties to respect international law.
The resolution passed by the emergency special session of the UN General Assembly reflects the global community’s view of the Israel-Hamas war. More than one-third of the 193 member states, or 153 countries, voted in favor of the resolution. This includes the 10 ASEAN countries, as well as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
The US and Israel voted against the resolution, while the UK and Germany abstained.
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