The Prime Minister invited Wanno to exchange views on the Middle East situation, hoping to reduce the impact on Thai citizens. He emphasized that Thailand adheres to a neutral stance, supports peace, and believes the government should be formed quickly to strengthen confidence and advance solutions to economic problems.
At 08:47 on 5 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, arrived at Government House to perform his official duties, beginning with the customary worship of the Nara Singha statue replica.
Subsequently, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, accompanied Wan Muhammad Nor Matha, former Speaker of the Parliament, to meet the Prime Minister at the Thai Khu Fa Building to discuss the ongoing conflict situation in the Middle East.
Wan Muhammad Nor revealed that the Prime Minister invited him for talks because, although Thailand is not at war, the situation could affect Thai nationals, especially those in Muslim countries. Therefore, they needed to discuss ways to minimize the impact on the people.
He confirmed that Muslims in Thailand need not worry because Thailand maintains a neutral position and is ready to comply with United Nations and ASEAN agreements. Thailand supports negotiation efforts aimed at achieving peace.
Regarding whether the conflict will be prolonged, Wan Muhammad Nor said it is still unpredictable due to involvement of multiple countries. However, the important task is for the government to promptly ensure the safety of Thai nationals in the area and facilitate those wishing to return home, which is the responsibility of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and related agencies.. (This part is incomplete.)He also believes that many countries are willing to cooperate with Thailand in assisting Thai nationals because Thailand is perceived as a peace-loving country without conflicts with others.
Wan Muhammad Nor further discussed the religious composition in the area, noting that over 80% of Thais in the Middle East are Sunni Muslims, whereas Iran is predominantly Shia Muslims at over 90%. Despite sectarian differences, this does not hinder peaceful coexistence. In Thailand itself, about 10% of Muslims are Shia.
Regarding the opening of the parliamentary session after the Election Commission certified all members of parliament, Wan Muhammad Nor stated that the next step is for the Secretary-General of the House of Representatives to send a letter to the Secretary-General of the Prime Minister's Office to request the official opening of the session, during which all MPs must take an oath before assuming duties.
On government formation, he viewed that the Bhumjaithai Party, having received the most public support, has the duty to lead the government formation and should proceed quickly to build confidence and address economic issues, especially amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. He noted that a caretaker government might have limitations in conducting international negotiations.
