Thailand working with other countries for release of hostages taken in Israel

BANGKOK: Thailand is working with Jordan, Egypt and Malaysia, among other countries, with a view to securing the release of its citizens taken hostage during unrest in Israel, a deputy foreign minister said on Monday.

A dozen Thai nationals were killed, nine wounded and 11 more kidnapped, Thailand's government said, when Hamas fighters burst across the fence from Gaza on a rampage that killed at least 700 Israelis. Dozens of people have been taken hostage.

"We are coordinating with countries that have links to the country that have taken our nationals hostage to negotiate for their release," Jakkapong Sangmanee, told a press briefing.

There were 1,400 Thais who have signed up to be evacuated, he said, adding the first group to return home would be those injured. About 30,000 Thai nationals work in Israel, according to Thai government figures.

Negotiations towards securing the release of the Thai hostages was "very positive" Jakkapong said, without elaborating.