Alert issued to Thai nationals in Mideast

Foreign ministry sets up war room to monitor developments, ensure Thai citizens’ safety

The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken a series of measures in the event that conflict in the Middle East could intensify further, potentially affecting the safety of Thai nationals residing in the region.

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said on Saturday the ministry has been in constant contact with all embassies across the region to closely monitor and assess developments, while keeping Thai nationals informed.

The Thai embassies in Tel Aviv and Tehran have been issuing advisories and guidance to Thai nationals since the early stages of the unrest. They have also set up dedicated hotlines to assist Thai citizens, said Mr Sihasak.

Only around 300 Thais live in Iran, most of them students. Around 40,000 Thais, most of them labourers, are living and working in Israel.

Following Saturday’s US and Israeli strikes on Tehran and Iranian retaliation against US bases in the region, the ministry urged Thai nationals residing in high-risk areas, particularly in Iran and Israel, to leave affected areas as soon as possible.

Those without urgent need were also advised to reconsider any travel plans to locations affected by the conflict. Dozens of airlines have already cancelled scheduled flights as countries across the region have closed their airspace.

The foreign ministry has established a war room to work closely with relevant agencies in tracking and assessing developments. All Thai missions in the Middle East have prepared assistance measures for Thai nationals, including evacuation plans should the need arise.

In addition, the Department of Consular Affairs has set up a 24-hour emergency operations centre to provide urgent assistance. Thai nationals requiring immediate help can contact it at 0-2572-8442.

A demonstrator holds a placard depicting Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last shah, as demonstrators gather in support of military action against the Iranian regime, outside the Iranian embassy in London on Feb 28, 2026. (Photo: Reuters)