Suradet advised the government to urgently find measures to address energy issues arising from the Middle East war, to develop a careful strategy that remains neutral, and urged both opposition and government to unite at this time.
On 2 March 2026, Mr. Suradet Yasawat, an independent politician and former member of the Senate and House of Representatives as well as former deputy leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, commented on the escalating tensions in the Middle East, including the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei along with many officials and civilians. He viewed the situation from a humanitarian perspective, calling the events a tragedy for the people of the country and Muslims worldwide. He expressed sympathy for innocent civilians, especially children and youth who have lost their lives or been affected.ImpactThey are unaware of the reasons behind it, and it should not be divided by religion. This is heartbreaking and shocking for people worldwide. It has shown that war benefits no side but only causes damage to both. People are now living in fear, without happiness or freedom. How can citizens live under these conditions? As a Thai citizen, I express my deep sorrow and shock over these events.I did not expect the situationto escalate to this extent. For Thailand, we have only friends, no enemies, and have consistently maintained a neutral stance.
Mr. Suradet said he is concerned about Thai nationals working in Middle Eastern countries, including Israel, Iran,and others in the region.He urged them to return to Thailand promptly. Regardless, they must come back; waiting to see if the situation calms is too risky. The conflict could escalate globally, especially involving the United States, where even Americans may worry about retaliation from Iran. If retaliation targets innocent civilians rather than military bases, causing deaths among youth and innocents, it is deeply concerning.
"Personally, I am worried aboutthe Thai people,and believe the embassy must take a more proactive role. Everyone must return before the situation stabilizes, even if forced, because safety is paramount. Thai families with relatives working in these countries are surely anxious as well."
Mr. Suradet said that currently, Thais, especially the government, are likely concerned about economic impacts, including volatile gold prices and effects on tourism and trade. The Ministry of Commerce must work proactively to find ways to increase agricultural exports. Additionally,there are issues concerning oil, and the Ministry of Energyneeds to resolve or have measuresto address these challenges.We cannot just waitfor the situation to unfold; there mustbe contingency plans in place.
"Many issues have been brought to the government. Therefore, I recommend that whoever becomes opposition or government must unite now. Political fault-finding or games are no longer appropriate. Everyone must work together as representatives and fellow Thais. All agencies must care for citizens across all areas, including businesspeople and SMEs, and urgently plan to cope withthe impacts facing Thailand.Although a new government has not yet been formed, we still have a caretaker government that can operate. Regardinginternational relations, we muststrategize carefully without siding with any party and proceed cautiously in this diplomatic challenge."