**Thai Hostages Freed in Gaza**
Five Thai farm workers who were held captive for nearly 500 days have been released from Gaza. They were handed over to the Red Cross along with two Israelis.
The five men, Pongsak Thaenna, Sathian Suwannakham, Watchara Sriaoun, Bannawat Saethao, and Surasak Lamnao, were working in southern Israel when they were kidnapped during attacks by Hamas in October 2023.
**Families Reunited**
The families of the released hostages are overjoyed. Wilas Thaenna, whose son Pongsak was freed, wept with happiness after receiving a call to say his son had been released. “I never thought this day would come,” he said.
Wiwwaew Sriaoun also sobbed as it was confirmed her son Watchara had been released. She said she wants to hug her son and tell him how much she misses him.
**Government Reaction**
Thailand’s prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is “elated” by the news of their release. She said the Thai government has been working with Israel to ensure the hostages can return home as soon as possible.
**Remaining Hostage Unaccounted For**
One Thai hostage remains unaccounted for. Nattapong Pinta’s fate is not known. The Thai government hopes he will be released and returned safely.