On 16 March 2026, the Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East held a press briefing, led by Panidone Pachimsawat, Acting Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reporting ongoing developments and efforts to assist Thai nationals in the region.

∙Current Situation
The conflict continues to escalate, with ongoing airstrikes across Iran, Israel, and Iraq. Iran has been targeting Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Iraq, and Jordan — particularly ports, airports, and energy infrastructure. The US and Israel have continued strikes on Iranian military targets, including the critical Kharg Island oil export facility. Reports also indicate strikes near civilian areas in Tehran. Thai nationals in affected areas are strongly urged to evacuate immediately and register their contact details with the nearest Thai embassy or consulate.

∙ “Mayuree Naree” Crew Update
All 20 crew members of the Thai cargo vessel “Mayuree Naree” arrived safely in Thailand in the morning of 16 March. The rescue involved over 10 hours of overland travel from Khasab to Muscat, with full cooperation from Omani and UAE authorities. Thailand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs has also held direct talks with his Iranian counterpart to push for the safe return of the three remaining crew members still aboard the vessel, while also calling for safe passage for Thai commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

∙Evacuation from Iran
The Royal Thai Embassy in Tehran, Iran, which is currently temporarily operating from Van, Turkey, has announced two additional evacuation rounds scheduled for 17 and 25 March. Thai nationals wishing to leave Iran are advised to register with the embassy as soon as possible.

Since the conflict began, 952 Thai nationals have been successfully evacuated from the Middle East region.

The Thai government reaffirms its commitment to the safety of all Thai nationals affected by the conflict and will continue working tirelessly to bring everyone home.