Thailand ready to evacuate citizens if Mideast tensions escalate - Bangkok Post

Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow (Photo: Nutthawat Wichieanbut) Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has reaffirmed Thailand’s readiness to respond to developments in the Middle East, saying preparations are under way to evacuate Thai nationals if necessary, amid reports that the United States may launch another military operation against Iran.

Mr Sihasak, who is also deputy prime minister, said on Friday that Thai embassies in the region were closely monitoring official security advisories issued by host countries and would keep Thai nationals informed.

The government is also coordinating with the Royal Thai Armed Forces to prepare evacuation plans in case the situation deteriorates, he said.

Mr Sihasak said developments in the Middle East must be monitored closely, particularly military movements, as a significant number of Thai nationals live and work in the region.

Thailand has already prepared contingency measures with the military in case an evacuation from high-risk areas becomes necessary.

Thais living in countries where authorities have advised residents to stockpile food have been urged to follow official alerts and comply with local government recommendations.

The foreign minister stressed that Thailand was preparing for all possible scenarios. Asked about reports that 30 countries had advised their citizens to stockpile food, he said the warnings could reflect concerns that an escalation of tensions in the Middle East, or an expansion of the conflict, might require further precautionary measures.