Anutin declares ‘Thailand First,’ readies Iran evacuation

2026-03-03 - 09:03

BANGKOK — Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on 3 March declared a “Thailand First” policy as tensions escalate in the Middle East, pledging to prioritize the safety of Thai nationals and minimize any impact on the country. Speaking after chairing a meeting at the Foreign Ministry to assess the situation with ambassadors and consular officials across the region, he said the government is preparing all possible measures to evacuate around 300 Thais from Iran, considered the highest-risk area. Anutin said the overall morale of Thais in the region remains good, with fewer than 25% expressing a desire to return home. In Israel, about 20 out of more than 60,000 Thai nationals have requested repatriation, while some 1,000 in the United Arab Emirates have indicated interest in returning, though commercial travel routes remain available. He added that authorities are ready to coordinate alternative transit points if airspace closures occur. The prime minister stressed that safety remains the top concern and instructed embassies to fully assist any Thai citizen wishing to return. He acknowledged logistical challenges, including exit visa requirements and disruptions to government services in affected countries, but said the government would pursue every available channel to bring citizens home swiftly. Addressing concerns over energy security, Anutin said Thailand’s oil reserves remain sufficient and the situation has not reached a crisis level. He is scheduled to meet with the Energy and Commerce ministries on 4 March to discuss measures to stabilize prices should the conflict persist. While global market volatility may affect fuel costs, he said the government would seek to cushion the impact on living expenses and prevent price gouging, reaffirming that “Thailand First” means safeguarding both the nation’s security and economic stability.