Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow on Wednesday confirmed the deaths of three Thai crew members who went missing following an attack on the vessel MV Mayuree Naree in the Strait of Hormuz last month amid the Middle East conflict.
The minister said he is scheduled to visit Oman April 15–16 to thank Omani authorities for their assistance in the rescue operation after the Thai‑flagged bulk carrier was struck by Iranian missiles on March 11. Twenty Thai crew members were rescued by the Omani navy, while three were initially reported missing.
Last week, human remains were found in the affected area of the vessel, though the identity and number of individuals to whom the remains belonged had not yet been confirmed.
During a media briefing on the Middle East situation, Mr Sihasak confirmed that all three missing crew members had been killed and expressed his condolences to the deceased’s families.
Another important purpose of his visit, the minister said, is to follow up on discussions between Oman and Iran regarding the two countries' joint monitoring of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
He will seek the assistance of Omani and Iranian authorities to secure clearance for remaining Thai cargo vessels to pass through the strait.
Currently, nine Thai vessels are waiting to pass through the channel. Five of them are transporting fertilisers, which are vitally needed in Thailand, he said.
The minister also welcomed the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that both sides would use this opportunity to achieve a sustainable stop to hostilities and reach a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Mr Sihasak urged Thai citizens still in affected countries to use this two‑week period to return to Thailand, warning that the situation remains uncertain. He advised them to contact Thai embassies for assistance, adding that financial support is available for those unable to cover travel expenses.
