Five Thai nationals who were held hostage by Hamas since the group’s attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, were released on Thursday. A total of 31 Thais were taken by Hamas, with 23 already released, two confirmed dead, and one remaining person with an unclear status. In total, 46 Thais have been killed during the conflict, including the two who died in captivity. Thailand has a large number of workers in Israel, primarily in the agriculture sector, earning considerably more than they could at home.
Despite criticism for poor working conditions, including low pay and unsafe living conditions, there are still thousands of Thai workers in Israel. In the wake of the Hamas attack, thousands of Thai workers returned home, but higher wages continue to attract new arrivals. The Thai ambassador to Israel stated that there are now more than 38,000 Thai workers in the country.
Israel’s Agriculture Ministry announced incentives to attract foreign workers back to evacuated areas, including extending work visas and offering bonuses. Thailand’s Labor Ministry granted nearly 4,000 Thai workers permission to work in Israel in 2024. The jobs in Israel provide a significant source of income for Thai migrant workers from poorer regions of the country. Despite challenges, the partnership between Thailand and Israel in the agriculture sector continues to thrive.
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