Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow on 28 March 2026 held a telephone conversation with Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar.

The Foreign Minister expressed appreciation to the Qatari side for ensuring the safety and well-being of Thai nationals in Qatar, as well as for facilitating their safe return to Thailand amid the ongoing regional tensions. The Qatari side reaffirmed its readiness to provide assistance and care to its fullest extent to Thai nationals in Qatar.

Both sides also exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East, shared concern over the conflicts and repercussions on global supply chains. They expressed hope for a swift and peaceful resolution through diplomatic efforts.

Meanwhile, the Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East on 27 March approved the establishment of a sub-working group, comprising representatives of relevant agencies, to prioritize goods and vessels seeking passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

With regard to Thai maritime transport through the Strait of Hormuz, as stated by the Minister of Foreign Affairs during the “Meet the Press” event on 28 March, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been closely coordinating with the Iranian side to ensure the safe passage of Thai commercial vessels. Some vessels have successfully transited the Strait. Nevertheless, continued engagement with all relevant parties remains ongoing to assist commercial vessels that are still stranded.

In his summary of the press briefing at the Joint Management and Monitoring Center for the Situation in the Middle East on 29 March at Government House, Mr. Panidone Pachimsawat, Acting Director-General of the Department of Information and Deputy Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that Foreign Minister Sihasak had sent further official communication to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran requesting urgent assistance for three Thai crew members aboard the cargo vessel “Mayurina Naree.” Further updates on this matter will be provided as soon as further information becomes available.

As for Qatar, the Foreign Minister on 28 March held a telephone conversation with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, expressing appreciation for Qatar’s assistance in caring for Thai nationals and facilitating their safe return to Thailand. The Qatari side reaffirmed its continued support for Thai nationals in Qatar. Both sides also expressed concern over the situation and underscored the importance of resolving it swiftly through diplomatic means.

Another group of eight Thai nationals who departed Iran via Türkiye arrived safely in Thailand on 28 March. Mr. Panidone said that Israel had announced the closure of airspace until 16 April 2026. All foreign airlines have suspended operations, with only El Al and Arkia continuing limited flights to Thailand. These are not regularly scheduled services and may be subject to sudden cancellation due to conditions on the ground. Thai nationals requiring urgent departure from Israel are advised to contact the Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv for assistance through official channels.

In Bahrain, Gulf Air has announced the continuation of its flight operations, including the Dammam–Bangkok route, until 30 April 2026. Dammam is a key transit hub for travel into and out of the region via Saudi Arabia.