Thailand and Israel have agreed to deepen their bilateral relations following the successful release of five Thai nationals who had been held hostage for 15 months by Hamas.

In a high-level meeting held in Jerusalem on Sunday, Thailand’s Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa and Israeli President Isaac Herzog discussed avenues for enhanced cooperation in multiple sectors, reflecting the strong potential for long-term partnerships between the two countries.

During the meeting, Foreign Minister Maris expressed gratitude to Israel for its role in securing the release of the hostages and requested continued support in locating and freeing the remaining Thai hostage.

He also sought assistance in the repatriation of the bodies of two deceased Thai nationals.

Maris highlighted the significant contribution of Thai agricultural workers in Israel, noting that their role extends beyond labor, as they are an integral part of Israel’s agricultural system.

He emphasized that ongoing collaboration in this sector would help foster stronger people-to-people ties.

President Herzog echoed this sentiment, stressing Israel’s interest in strengthening its relationship with Thailand through expanded cooperation in business, investment, security, infrastructure, and agricultural science.

He described the collaboration as a gateway to creating new opportunities and enhancing long-lasting relations.

Herzog also praised Thailand’s diplomatic neutrality and its reputation for maintaining friendly relations with all nations, highlighting this as a key factor in Thailand’s effective international engagement.

Further discussions took place between Maris and Israel’s Interior Minister Moshe Arbel, where the strong reputation of Thai workers in Israel was a focal point.

Arbel commended Thailand’s involvement in the successful negotiations to release the hostages, particularly its ability to engage diplomatically across different political perspectives, including coordination with Israel and the United States.

Arbel noted that Thailand’s neutral stance had made it a valuable partner in sensitive diplomatic efforts.

Maris reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to neutrality in conflicts and its dedication to humanitarian cooperation with Israel and other nations.

He provided updates on the health condition of the five released hostages, stating that medical evaluations were underway to determine if they were fit to return to Thailand.

He added that the Thai military was prepared to repatriate the nationals as soon as possible but warned that arranging a special flight for a small number of passengers could result in high costs.

The discussions in Jerusalem reflect the broader potential for closer cooperation between Thailand and Israel, particularly in areas such as agricultural development, technological exchange, and regional security.

Both countries view the strengthening of ties as a strategic step toward mutual growth and stability.