Thai workers in Israel are receiving full protection from the Israeli government amid the ongoing conflict with Iran, according to Alona Fisher-Kamm, the Israeli ambassador to Thailand.
Around 50,000 Thai workers are employed in Israel, and they are entitled to the same security protections as Israeli citizens, she said at a press conference in Bangkok on Tuesday.
These measures include access to nationwide warning systems such as sirens and missile alerts, as well as shelters located in public areas and private residences. She said Thai workers are also protected by Israel’s missile interception systems during attacks.
“Thai workers, of course, are entitled to all the protection provided by the Israeli government,” she said.
In addition to the standard security measures available to residents, the ambassador said foreign workers, including Thais, are receiving additional safety support.
This includes emergency instructions in the Thai language, distributed through text messages and video guides explaining how to respond to alerts and where to find the nearest shelters.
A 24-hour emergency hotline in Thai has also been set up so workers can seek assistance or report concerns.
Ms Fisher-Kamm said Israeli authorities have maintained close coordination with the Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv and relevant Thai agencies to ensure Thai workers are informed about safety measures and support services.
Her remarks came after the Thai Ministry of Labour decided to temporarily suspend the deployment of Thai workers to the Middle East because of ongoing regional tensions.
The government has said the programme will resume once the situation stabilises.
Asked whether the suspension could affect future labour cooperation between the two countries, Ms Fisher-Kamm said she did not expect any long-term impact.
She also said that, so far, no Thai workers have expressed interest in leaving Israel. “I know this is a frightening situation, especially for those who have never experienced war,” she said.
“But Thai workers understand Israel is doing its utmost to protect them.”
