The Prime Minister reaffirmed his previous statement, emphasizing awareness without panic regarding food hoarding concerns, stating that Thailand is food secure, has access to production sources, and has confirmed backup plans for energy.
At 06:50 on 30 Oct 2026 at Military Airport 2, Wing 6 (Wg.6), Don Mueang, Bangkok, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed his earlier interview advising the public not to panic but to stay aware, in light of warnings by several countries urging citizens to stockpile food, which ironically led to public defiance. The Prime Minister acknowledged saying to be aware but not panic. When reporters asked if this backlash was due to public distrust in the government, the Prime Minister simply replied, “Yes, yes.”
When asked if he had issued further instructions on this matter, the Prime Minister said to remain aware, but emphasized that Thailand already has strong food security. Agricultural production, raw materials, and access to food production remain stable. Regarding messages to people living in areas under food stockpiling alerts, the Prime Minister said the embassies have already taken action.
When asked about monitoring cybersecurity and national infrastructure security, the Prime Minister avoided a direct answer, responding, “You keep asking like this. Let's set boundaries first about what we currently have. It keeps going on. Please limit the scope a bit. For detailed issues, please direct your questions to the respective agencies.”
Asked about intelligence reports suggesting the U.S. may conduct military operations against Iran affecting energy prices, the Prime Minister said preparations are ongoing continuously to align with the situation. When pressed if energy backup sources have been secured in advance, he confirmed that preparations are always in place.
“Sihasak” Emphasizes Embassy Readiness for Alerts and Joint Evacuation Plans with the Military
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkaew addressed reports from foreign news agencies about possible renewed U.S. military action against Iran, saying it should be divided into two parts: the military situation in the Middle East, which they are closely monitoring due to Thai citizens there; and preparations for Thais in the region coordinated with the Thai military if necessary. For Thais in countries issuing food stockpiling advisories, he urged them to follow their respective countries’ alerts. He emphasized that Thai embassies await official government alerts from each country and have the duty to inform Thai citizens to prepare accordingly, affirming readiness for all scenarios.
When asked about warnings in 17 countries advising citizens to stockpile food, Sihasak said these likely stem from concerns about escalating Middle East conflicts or prolonged fighting, necessitating public preparedness. If a situation arises, evacuation and relocation to safe areas are planned. He confirmed that joint plans with the Thai military exist and have been implemented during previous conflicts.
When asked if intelligence has indicated signs pointing to potential incidents, Sihasak said they are actively monitoring and closely following all developments.