Thais in Israel and Iran urged to leave as tension escalates

The Thai Foreign Ministry has advised Thai nationals in Israel and Iran, which have been engaged in fierce air attacks and retaliations since Friday, to consider leaving while flights are still operational.

All Thais are also encouraged to stay alert and follow announcements, advice and safety guidelines from the Thai embassies in those countries.

“I ask Thais to consider leaving the area immediately while flights are still available,” Ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura said today.

On Friday, Israel struck Iranian nuclear and military facilities in Tehran with a barrage of missiles, reportedly killing several top officials and prompting counterattacks by Iran.

Iran described the Israeli air assault as "a declaration of war" and responded with missile barrages against the Jewish state later on Friday and Saturday.

Israeli emergency services said two people were killed when a rocket hit a residential area early Saturday, as both sides exchanged fire for a second day, despite international calls for de-escalation.

Regarding the tension between the two historic enemies, “Thailand expresses its grave concern over the rising tension and escalation of conflict, which could have a broader impact,” said the spokesman.

“We urge all parties to the conflict to exercise maximum restraint to prevent further deterioration, which will inevitably affect innocent civilians.”

Fire and smoke rise from a building, reportedly hit by a missile fired from Iran, in central Tel Aviv on June 13.//AFP

He said that the Foreign Ministry and Thai embassies in the region are closely monitoring developments and are coordinating with relevant agencies to prepare emergency assistance for Thai nationals.

Thais are also strongly encouraged to avoid travelling to the region, unless absolutely necessary.

The ministry has already activated the Rapid Response Centre (RRC), to coordinate with agencies and embassies in assisting Thai citizens as needed, he added.