Israeli Authorities Affirm Safety Measures for Thai Laborers Amidst Intensifying Regional Conflicts
Fierce Defense: Israeli Ambassador Assures Thai Workers' Safety Amid Military Operations
Israeli Ambassador Orna Sagiv to Thailand has spoken out, emphasizing robust safety measures in place, to safeguard Thai laborers within Israel, as military operations against Iran enter their fifth day.
Protecting Thai Workers with a Multi-layered Approach
In an exclusive sit-down with us, Ambassador Sagiv shared Israel's comprehensive approach to ensuring the safety of the nearly 40,000 Thai workers residing within the country during escalating tensions.
"Thai people have safe shelters. They have clear instructions in Thai. Their employers are caring for them, guiding them to safety just like their own," the ambassador stated.
The safety system revolves around translated safety instructions, employer-guided shelter protocols, and constant lines of communication.
The Israeli government collaborates closely with Thailand's Ministry of Labor. There are two Thai diplomatic representatives based in Tel Aviv, maintaining strong connections with Israeli authorities to keep a close eye on Thai citizen safety.
"Our goal is to first give them clear information and help them understand what to do if they hear a siren," Sagiv stated, acknowledging that newcomers may require time to acclimate to unfamiliar security procedures.
Continued Growth of Thai Workforce Despite Challenges
Believe it or not, the number of Thai workers in Israel has expanded during the present conflict.
Prior to October 7, 2023, roughly 25,000-30,000 Thai workers called Israel their workplace, primarily in agriculture. However, when the conflict began, Thailand's former Prime Minister urged their return, with approximately 9,000 workers initially leaving Israel. But many swiftly expressed their desire to return to Israel, resulting in the current workforce surging to almost 40,000 people.
"As soon as they came back, they started asking us how they could return to Israel,” the ambassador noted, suggesting that Thai workers have faith in Israel's commitment to their well-being.
Talks are underway for a new Memorandum of Understanding, aiming to broaden Thai worker involvement beyond agriculture to include industrial and construction sectors.
Suspension of New Worker Deployment
Recently, the Thai government has declared a halt to the dispatch of fresh workers to Israel due to security concerns.
Ambassador Sagiv expressed optimism this decision would be rescinded once conditions improve, as present travel limitations prevent any movement.
"I hope that when things are resolved and the war ends, we will continue to see Thai workers in Israel," she stated, emphasizing that Thai workers receive care similar to Israeli citizens.
Security Landscape and Civilian Impact
In the five days of military operations against Iran, threats have been constant: around 400 long-range ballistic missiles and more than 850 drone attacks have been recorded.
Sadly, 24 Israelis have lost their lives, and over 600 have been wounded, as missiles focused civilian areas, including bus stops and residential neighborhoods.
"Ever since the conflict started, we've almost daily or every other night, since 7th of October 2023, faced a missile from Yemen landing in Israel, disrupting the sleep of half the nation at 3:00 a.m., Sagiv explained,udescribing the ongoing disruption to daily life.
Those who question Israel's military actions have been met with pointed questions from Ambassador Sagiv:
"What action do you think Thailand would take if a neighboring country developed nuclear weapons aimed directly at Thailand, calling for its destruction? Would you want a nuclear Iran close to Thailand and potentially threatening neighboring countries in Asia?" she asked.
When it comes to international calls for diplomatic solutions with Iran, Ambassador Sagiv displays skepticism about Iran's willingness to negotiate.
"Iran has a history of deceiving the world. We don't trust them.," she said, citing Iran's illicit nuclear activities while engaging in diplomatic talks.
While diplomatic options may arise in the future, she stresses that Israel has not yet achieved its military objectives.
"Though we've initiated actions, we haven't reached our targets and goals," she explained.
Even the critics of Israel recognize the global threat that a nuclear Iran poses, as suggested by the widespread support for Israel's actions.
Cross-Cultural Communication for Worker SafetyIn her discussions with us, Ambassador Sagiv highlighted the importance of clear communication in ensuring the safety of Thai workers in Israel. She expressed that translating safety instructions into Thai and maintaining constant dialogue between Thai workers, their employers, and Israeli authorities plays a crucial role.
Global Implications of regional ConflictsDuring the recent military operations against Iran, the Israeli ambassador was questioned about the political motivations behind Israel's actions. In response, she raised the international opinion on the potential threat a nuclear Iran poses to the world, especially neighboring countries like Thailand.
Cultural Understanding in Crisis ManagementIn light of the ongoing conflict, the Israeli ambassador underscored the fact that cultural sensitivities should be taken into account when managing crises. She highlighted the Thai workers' rapid return to Israel and their continued faith in the country's commitment to their well-being as evidence of Israel's effective cultural understanding.
