The Center for Administration and Monitoring warns that tensions in the Middle East remain intense and urges Thai nationals to leave the area. Two evacuation rounds are planned for 17 and 25 March. Those wishing to return to Thailand are advised to contact the embassy promptly. Regarding progress in assisting the three Mayurinari crew members, close coordination continues but confirmation has not yet been received. Patience is requested.
On 16 March 2026 at the Government House, the Center for Administration and Monitoring of Middle East Conflict Situations held its daily briefing. Mr. Panidol Patchimsawat, Director-General of the Information Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Spokesperson, reported thatthe situationin the Middle East is overall escalating continuously, with airstrikes exchanged across multiple countries, notably Iran, Israel, and Iraq. Iran continues air attacks targeting Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, especially around ports, airports, and energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, the U.S. and Israel persist in striking Iran's military infrastructure and oil export points on Kharg Island. Reports indicate Israel struck near gatherings in Tehran. Given ongoing uncertainty, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs urges Thai nationals to promptly consider leaving high-risk areas, to follow updates and advice from responsible embassies and consulates, and to register their locations with these diplomatic missions.for awareness.
Mr. Panidol provided updates on assistance efforts for Thai nationals. This morning (16 March), 20 crew members of the cargo ship Mayurinari safely departed Thailand. Regarding the urgent search and aid for the remaining three crew members, on 15 March, Mr. Sihasak Puangketkaew, Minister of Foreign Affairs,held a telephone discussion with Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs, requesting Iranian support to assist the three Thai crew members still stranded onthe Mayurinari vessel.He also used this opportunity to discuss permission for Thai ships to transit the Strait of Hormuz safely, emphasizing Thailand’s stance urging all parties to return to diplomatic negotiations to resolve the situation peacefully as soon as possible..
When asked about the current status of the three crew members, Mr. Panidol said they are still awaiting news. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working closely with the embassies of Oman and Iran in Thailand to monitor the situation. He stressed that this matter is being given full priority, but confirmation has not yet been received and asked for patience.
Mr. Panidol also commented on ongoing efforts to monitor progress inproviding assistance toThai nationals in high-risk areas. Although the embassy in Tehran has temporarily relocated to Turkey, assistance and coordination efforts on the ground continue fully. Continuous situation warnings have been issued. The latest plan includes two scheduled evacuation rounds on 17 and 25 March 2026. Those wishing to return are urged to register with the embassy as soon as possible. Additional evacuation rounds will be arranged as the situation requires. So far, 952 Thai nationals have been assisted to leave the Middle East region and have arrived safely in Thailand.