BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow voiced concern on Tuesday for Thai nationals attending the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, amid fears that Middle East conflict could escalate. Sihasak said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is closely monitoring developments in the Middle East following Houthi attacks into Saudi Arabia. He noted that Thai military officials and embassies are preparing contingency plans to assist Thai citizens should the situation worsen.
Addressing recent UK government advice for citizens to stockpile at least three days of food, Sihasak advised Thai residents in Britain to follow local authority updates, adding that the Thai embassy in London will issue alerts if conditions deteriorate. He also urged Thais planning travel to Europe to monitor local conditions closely and avoid non-essential travel to affected areas until situation stabilizes. (TNA)
