Summary of Press Briefing
at the Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East
by Mr. Panidone Pachimsawat, Acting Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy MFA Spokesperson
on 25 March 2026 at 11.05 hrs. at the Government House

1. Developments on the situation in the Middle East

• The situation in the region remains tense, with retaliatory attacks between the main parties continuing. There have also been strikes targeting Gulf countries, most of which have been intercepted.
• Following the U.S. President's announcement affirming that diplomatic negotiations with Iran remain ongoing, despite Iran’s denial, there are reports that the U.S. has submitted a 15-point proposal to negotiate with Iran. The proposal includes provisions to ensure the permanent reopening of maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
• Iran stated that the Strait of Hormuz has remained closed, but vessels from friendly countries may be permitted safe passage.
• As the situation remains uncertain, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to urge Thai nationals to consider leaving high-risk areas as soon as possible and to closely follow updates and guidance through official communication channels. Thai nationals are also encouraged to register their residence and contact information with the Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General responsible for their respective areas.

2. Developments on assistance provided to Thai nationals in the area and other actions undertaken

• The Minister of Foreign Affairs held a telephone conversation with the Ambassador of Iran to Thailand regarding the joint Iran - Oman operation to assist the three crew members who remain aboard the cargo vessel Mayurinaree. A confirmation of the status of the three crew members is still pending. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will provide updates as soon as further information becomes available.
• Thailand expresses its appreciation to Iran and Oman for their cooperation in this operation, as well as to all the countries involved in facilitating the mission.
• Thailand reiterates the importance of ensuring the safety of commercial navigation through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law. One Thai oil tanker has safely passed through the Strait and is en route to Thailand, while another vessel is awaiting passage.
• Four Thai nationals returning from Iran via Türkiye arrived safely in Thailand this morning. Another group of eight Thai nationals is expected to travel from Iran via Türkiye today and will continue their journey back to Thailand.
• Further to the previous briefing, the remains of Mr. Chaiwat Waewnil, who passed away in Israel, are scheduled to arrive by El Al Airlines in Thailand tomorrow (26 March 2026) before being returned to his hometown for religious rites. Yesterday (24 March 2026), representatives from the Temporary Passport Office in Nakhon Ratchasima, on behalf of the Department of Consular Affairs, visited to extend condolences and support to Mr. Chaiwat’s family in Chaiyaphum province.
• The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates its call for Thai nationals remaining in the Middle East to closely follow official updates, regularly assess their safety, and strictly adhere to official advisories.
• A total of 1,486 Thai nationals have been assisted in departing from the Middle East to Thailand or to third countries.
• The Government remains firmly committed to assisting Thai nationals affected by the conflict in the Middle East and ensuring their safe departure from high-risk areas at the earliest possible opportunity.