Thailand’s workers in Israel hunker down as Iran strikes targets across Gulf
South China Morning Post
by Aidan JonesMarch 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Thailand has issued a warning to its estimated 110,000 citizens working across the Middle East amid escalating tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran. The move comes as Iranian strikes target Gulf region targets, heightening concerns for Thai nationals in conflict zones. Notably, around 60,000 Thais are in Israel, where they are drawn by higher "danger money" wages compared to opportunities at home or elsewhere. Additionally, approximately 250 Thais remain in Iran, adding urgency to the situation as global conflicts intensify.
The Thai government's alert follows recent regional instability, including the ongoing US-Israeli-Iranian conflict and the unresolved tensions from the Gaza war, which claimed the lives of several Thai nationals. While Israel has been a key destination for Thai workers due to its higher pay, the current geopolitical climate has raised safety concerns. Thai authorities are working to ensure their citizens' well-being, urging them to remain cautious and heed local advisories.
This situation highlights Thailand's significant presence in Middle Eastern labor markets and underscores the risks faced by expatriates in conflict-prone regions. For global readers, it sheds light on the interconnectedness of international migration patterns with geopolitical tensions. As conflicts escalate, the safety of Thai workers in Israel and Iran remains a pressing concern, reflecting broader challenges for migrant communities in volatile areas.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 3/2/2026