Foreign Minister Sihasak denies reports that the US requested to use U-Tapao Airport as a military operations base, emphasizing Thailand's commitment to peace and Thai citizens' safety through diplomatic talks. He revealed that discussions have taken place with the Iranian ambassador to prepare for evacuating Thai nationals.
At 16:55 on 5 March 2026 GMT+7 Mr. Sihasak Puangkaew, Minister of Foreign Affairs said at the Government House about reports on 4 March that Mr. Sean K. O'Neill, the US Ambassador to Thailand, met the Prime Minister to request using U-Tapao Airport as a military base for operations against Iran. He firmly denied any such talks on that date, stating the discussions focused on bilateral relations, situation updates, trade negotiations on import tariffs, and defense cooperation.
He added that cooperation involving use of Thai airports is routine in terms of security, such as overflight and refueling, which Thailand conducts with many countries. "However, cooperating to allow use as a base for attacking another country with which we maintain good relations is not part of our policy," he said.
When asked if there had been talks with the Iranian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Thailand since the incident, Mr. Sihasak said discussions have taken place. He said the biggest concern is evacuating over 200 Thai nationals from Iran. The timing depends on when evacuees are ready. They will be moved from Tehran by land to the Turkish border. While plans exist, details are not being disclosed. Thailand has coordinated with the Iranian embassy in Thailand and its embassy in Iran to ensure safety. It is also liaising with the US and Israel on evacuation routes, dates, and details from Tehran to the Turkish border, treating this as a humanitarian issue requiring routes free from conflict dangers.
Mr. Sihasak further stated that there are some claims that Thailand lacks a clear position. He clarified that Thailand’s top priority is the safety of its citizens; second, Thailand is not a party to the conflict; third, Thailand desires peaceful resolution through diplomatic negotiations rather than military means; and fourth, resolutions must be based on international law and the United Nations Charter, which are well established. Thailand’s stance is clear. He expressed concern about experts and former officials criticizing Thailand’s lack of clarity. He affirmed that Thailand’s position is clear, aiming for peace. Those knowledgeable about foreign affairs would find Thailand’s statements sufficiently clear, balanced, appropriate for the situation, and protective of national interests—currently focused on safeguarding over 100,000 Thais in the region.