Wannor revealed that he discussed with the Iranian cultural attaché, expressing belief that the war will end soon, and requested facilitation for two Thai cargo ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran expressed willingness to cooperate if Thailand faces energy issues.
At 14:30 on 18 May 2026 at the Government House, Wannor Muhamadnor, Advisor to the Prime Minister, said after meeting with the Iranian Republic’s cultural attaché that the envoy came to thank him, the Thai leadership, and Islamic leaders for attending the condolence ceremony following the recent passing of Iran's Supreme Leader. The envoy also expressed gratitude to Thailand for remaining a good friend of Iran and offered encouragement amid Iran’s wartime challenges. Wannor stated that Thailand has a clear policy supporting neutrality, opposing aggression from any side, and upholding international obligations, rules, and United Nations resolutions. The Thai Foreign Minister has affirmed this stance as well. He expressed hope that the war will end soon, noting it affects not only the warring parties but also countries worldwide, especially in energy and economic sectors.
Wannor said he emphasized to the cultural attaché that two Thai cargo ships are still unable to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The Thai Prime Minister asked him to request the Iranian government to facilitate the ships' passage as soon as possible. The attaché assured there is no problem; non-belligerent countries’ ships are normally allowed. However, due to heavy traffic, the attaché will coordinate with relevant Iranian authorities to ensure the Thai ships can return safely and promptly, for which Wannor expressed his gratitude.
Regarding the identity of the two ships, Wannor said they are Thai cargo vessels, with details already provided by Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to Iran’s counterpart, though the ships have not yet departed. He expects their release soon. When asked if today's meeting might cause misunderstandings with the United States, Wannor affirmed that Thailand maintains a policy of promoting global peace and does not support war, as it benefits no party. He reiterated Thailand’s neutrality and commitment to its obligations under the UN and international organizations, noting Thailand’s centuries-old relationship with Iran dating back to the Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin periods.
When asked if the envoy provided updates on Iran’s current situation, Wannor said the attaché shared several points. First, negotiations have progressed significantly, and while the exact timing is uncertain, a signing is hoped for soon. The attaché confirmed that negotiations are advancing positively, likely bringing good news rather than bad. Additionally, the U.S. President’s recent visit to China involved discussions about the Iran conflict that were constructive. The Iranian parliamentary speaker, tasked with international negotiations, is also expected to visit China soon. Overall, developments are moving favorably. Wannor expressed hope that Thailand’s energy and economic crises will be resolved quickly. He believes the Iran-U.S. conflict will ease soon but could not provide further details.
Regarding whether the envoy mentioned expanding cooperation, especially in energy, Wannor said Iran confirmed its readiness to cooperate fully with Thailand, highlighting energy as a key area. Iran is an important trading partner, including rice exports to Iran. Iran affirmed willingness to support Thailand in all aspects, including energy. Details will be negotiated with relevant agencies, and if Thailand faces energy problems, discussions with Iran can proceed without issues.