BANGKOK, Thailand – The Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East has reported ongoing rescue efforts after a Thai-flagged cargo vessel was attacked near the Strait of Hormuz, leaving three crew members missing. The update was delivered during a government briefing today (Mar 12) by Panidone Pachimsawat, acting director-general of the Department of Information and deputy spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Dr Varoth Chotpitayasunodh, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Health.
Officials said the cargo vessel Mayuree Naree, carrying 23 Thai sailors, sustained damage to its stern while sailing near the strategic waterway after departing Khalifa Port in the United Arab Emirates. The Royal Navy of Oman rescued 20 crew members and transported them safely to Khasab, Oman. Authorities reported that none of the rescued sailors suffered serious physical injuries, although mental health support is being arranged.
Search teams continue efforts to locate the remaining three crew members, who are believed to have been in the engine room at the time of the incident. The vessel remains at the scene while Omani naval personnel conduct search operations inside the ship, which has several internal levels and limited lighting. Authorities said ships navigating in the area had received multiple warnings advising them to avoid entering the zone.
The government also addressed broader developments in the Middle East during the briefing. Thailand has issued a second official statement expressing concern over escalating tensions following military actions involving Israel, the United States, and Iran, while calling on all sides to exercise restraint and return to negotiations. A special ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting on the situation in the Middle East is scheduled for March 13 to discuss regional responses.
Officials also provided updates on assistance to Thai nationals in affected countries. Groups of Thai workers from Iran have been transported through Türkiye, with dozens already returning to Thailand and others scheduled to arrive soon. Thai nationals have also returned from Qatar on special flights, while commercial flights between Thailand and destinations such as Dubai and Tel Aviv have gradually resumed. Health screening and mental health support are being arranged for returning citizens through airport screening systems and online consultation channels. (NNT)
