Thailand prepares evacuation plan for citizens in Middle East

2026-03-01 - 05:53

BANGKOK — The Thai government has ordered urgent preparations to evacuate Thai nationals from the Middle East amid rapidly escalating tensions following joint US-Israel strikes on Iran on 28 February. Security sources said on 1 March that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and assessing potential impacts on the safety of Thai citizens in the region. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said embassies and consulates have been instructed to issue safety advisories, urge Thais to avoid high-risk areas, prepare travel documents and register with officials. Hotlines have been activated to maintain close communication. If the situation deteriorates, safe zones and assembly points will be designated under emergency plans to facilitate evacuation. The government has called a meeting of the National Security Council on 2 March at 10:00 to integrate response measures. Relevant agencies, including the foreign, labour and defence ministries, as well as the Royal Thai Armed Forces, have been instructed to accelerate emergency evacuation plans. Initial plans involve chartered commercial flights from safe locations or the use of Thai Airways, with the Royal Thai Air Force placing suitable aircraft on standby. The Air Force will coordinate flight routes and airport arrangements, while the Foreign Ministry will oversee registration and assembly of Thai nationals before evacuation. In some cases, evacuees may be moved across borders to third countries to ensure safe departure. The government said the safety of Thai citizens remains its top priority and pledged coordinated, proactive efforts to ensure any evacuation is carried out swiftly and securely.