The Thai government continues to closely monitor the situation in the Middle East, expedite assistance for Thai nationals, manage the national oil system, and control commodity prices nationwide.

According to a press briefing of the Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East on 21 March 2026, the situation in the Middle East remains highly volatile. Most recently, Iranian authorities confirmed the death of a spokesperson of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in an Israeli airstrike.

For Thailand, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on 20 March 2026 regarding the death of a Thai worker in Israel amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The statement reiterated Thailand’s call for all parties concerned to return to dialogue and diplomacy at the earliest opportunity in order to bring an end to the conflict in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter, while ensuring the safety of civilians and the freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Regarding assistance to the 3 Thai crew members aboard the vessel “Mayuree Naree,” as the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated on 20 March 2026 that the Thai side has coordinated with both the Omani and Iranian authorities to explore possible ways to assist the three crew members. Both countries have acknowledged the request and expressed their readiness to assist as appropriate. At the same time, the concerned Thai agencies have coordinated with the relevant agencies in both Oman and Iran to identify the safest possible approach for providing assistance. However, operations remain constrained by the security situation in the area.

Concerning domestic energy situation, the Department of Energy Business is closely monitoring oil supplies, receiving daily reports from provincial energy offices. Truck deliveries are allowed 24/7 in March to expedite distribution to fuel stations. Overall, fuel supply is stabilizing, with diesel and gasoline sales approaching pre-crisis levels, indicating a return to balance in demand.

Regarding commerce and commodity prices, the Ministry of Commerce is closely monitoring prices and availability of goods. As for palm oil, the ministry monitors production, stock, and pricing. Current crude palm oil (CPO) stock is about 350,000 tons, sufficient for domestic management. New production from April to July is expected at over 400,000 tons per month, maintaining supply-demand balance. 

Packaged palm oil prices are currently 42–50 baht per bottle, with no signs of price hikes. The ministry continues to monitor the entire supply chain and urges operators not to raise prices without reason, assuring the public of adequate supply. Unfair pricing can be reported via hotline 1569 or provincial commerce offices for legal action.