From the Liveblog of
Thursday, January 30, 2025
In meeting with Herzog, Thai ambassador celebrates release of hostages
Amy Spiro is a reporter and writer with The Times of Israel
Thai Ambassador to Israel Panba Chandraramiya tells President Isaac Herzog that today is “one of the happiest in my life” with the release of five Thai hostages from Gaza.
“Today is one of the most happiest days in my life for two reasons,” Chandraramiya says, both the ability to meet Herzog and the fact that “five hostages will be released today — that is good news for me and for my country and for everyone involved.”
Chandraramiya thanks “the Israeli side for all the preparation for the hostages to be released today,” noting that there is still another Thai citizen believed to be held captive alive in Gaza.
Pongsak Thenna, Sathian Suwannakham, Watchara Sriaoun, Bannawat Seathao and Surasak Lamnau were freed today, while Pinta Nattapong is still believed to be held hostage and the bodies of Sudthisak Rinthalak and Sonthaya Oakkharasri are also being held.
Herzog tells the Thai ambassador that “we are very moved and excited to see the Thai brothers coming out of the terrible situation, being hostage and captive in Gaza, that’s why we’re so excited that they’re coming out, and we pray for all others.” The president adds: “I hope that they will recover soon and be able to go back home.”
The Times of Israel Community.