The Operation Center emphasizes that the Middle East situation remains severe, with the U.S. preparing to reinforce its military presence. It revealed that Iran has rejected the U.S. 15-point plan for ceasefire negotiations and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. So far, 1,499 Thais have been assisted in returning home to Thailand.
At 11:05 a.m. on 26 March 2026, at the Center for Administration and Monitoring of the Middle East Conflict (Operation Center) at the Government House, Mr. Panidol Patchimsawat, Acting Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, gave a briefing on the Middle East situation and assistance to Thai nationals. He said that the conflict remains intense, with ongoing retaliatory attacks between key opposing parties and strikes against Gulf Arab countries continuing. Additionally, reports indicate the U.S. is preparing to send additional troops to the Middle East to enhance operational effectiveness.
Mr. Panidol stated that regarding ceasefire negotiations in the Middle East, as he reported on 25 March, the U.S. sent a 15-point plan to Iran proposing an end to hostilities, including permanently reopening shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz. Reports indicate Iran has rejected this plan and set five conditions for a ceasefire, including international recognition of Iran's authority over the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the U.S. White House spokesperson confirmed ongoing talks with Iran but urged caution about online information on the 15-point plan, noting that only part of the information is accurate.
Mr. Panidol said that due to the overall high uncertainty, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates its advice for Thais to promptly leave high-risk areas, closely follow official news and guidelines, and register their location and contact details with embassies or consulates responsible for their areas.
Mr. Panidol provided updates on assistance to Thais in the region and other related actions, beginning with Iran and Oman. As previously announced on 25 March, Iran and Oman jointly operated to assist three crew members still stranded on the cargo ship Mayurinari. Their status is still pending confirmation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will promptly inform the public when there are updates.
Mr. Panidol reported that regarding Israel, the body of Mr. Chaiwat Waewnorn, who died from shrapnel in Israel and was originally scheduled to return to Thailand on the morning of 26 March, has not yet been repatriated. The El Al Israel Airlines flight LY 085 was canceled due to unforeseen circumstances. The Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv is coordinating closely with relevant agencies and the airline to arrange Mr. Chaiwat’s repatriation at the earliest opportunity. Confirmation of the new date and flight will be announced later.
Mr. Panidol said that concerning Iran and Turkey, on 25 March, eight Thais—seven students and family members and one fishing worker—crossed the border at the Raşi Kapıköy checkpoint into Turkey. They stayed overnight in Van city. On the morning of 26 March, all eight traveled to Istanbul, where they will stay overnight before departing on 27 March, with an expected arrival in Thailand on the morning of 28 March.
Mr. Panidol urged those still in the Middle East to regularly monitor official channels for safety assessments and strictly follow government advice. Since the conflict began, a total of 1,499 Thais have been assisted in leaving the Middle East either back to Thailand or to third countries. He reaffirmed that the Thai government remains committed to helping affected Thais exit dangerous areas safely at the earliest opportunity.