The fate of three Thai crew members missing from a Thai-flagged vessel hit by Iran’s military near the Strait of Hormuz three days ago remains unknown, as the area is considered high risk due to the ongoing Middle East conflict, making rescue operations difficult, Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said yesterday.
Thailand has asked Iranian authorities to allow rescue teams access to the site, he added.
The three crew members went missing after the Mayuree Naree was struck on March 11, while 20 other crew members were rescued by the Omani navy.
The three were working in the engine room at the stern of the vessel when it was hit by a projectile fired by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard. Images show that the stern of the ship was badly damaged, with a large hole in the hull.
Sihasak said in a press briefing that Oman has given the matter priority and is considering ways to assist in the search.
He added that the incident occurred in Omani waters, which authorities had previously warned vessels not to enter because of the danger.
During a recent discussion with Oman’s foreign minister, Sihasak expressed appreciation for Oman’s assistance in rescuing the crew members.
They acknowledged, however, that there are obstacles because the vessel is located in an area directly affected by conflict.
Oman must therefore assess the situation carefully to determine how rescue operations can proceed, he said. Oman must also wait for the right opportunity, as attacks are still occurring in the area. If conditions permit, rescue teams will move in to assist.
Sihasak said Oman is attempting to establish contact, but there is currently no new information about the three crew members still unaccounted for.
He said he believes Oman is coordinating efforts on the matter while Thailand continues to follow the situation closely.
Commenting on the evacuation of Thai nationals affected by the fighting in the Middle East, Sihasak said all Thai nationals in Iran who wished to leave have already been evacuated, totalling 116 people.
The final group is expected to arrive today, including government officials and their families. Those who remain in Iran have chosen to stay, but Thailand stands ready to assist them if they request help.
Sihasak added that 584 Thai nationals living in the affected countries of the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Iraq, Lebanon, Israel and Jordan have been assisted in returning home.
Another 23 people have continued on to other countries. In Israel, only 10 people have requested assistance to return.
There are currently between 50,000 and 60,000 Thai workers in Israel, most of whom have chosen to remain. The Israeli government has so far been able to maintain control of the situation domestically by intercepting attacks and implementing safety measures to protect Thai and other foreign workers.
