analysis Business
article with Reuters as source - Singapore US 4
Five Thai hostages were released as part of a phased agreement between Israel and Hamas that halted a 15-month conflict in Gaza.
When the short-shaven head of his son Pongsak popped into frame, Wilas shouted in joy and tears poured down his cheeks.
The rest of the family scrambled to gather around the small screen.
That was the first sign of life for Pongsak, released after 15 months in captivity in Gaza, held there since Hamas' attack on Israel on Oct 7, 2023 and the subsequent retaliatory war on Gaza by Israel.
It was a moment the 64-year-old father and widower from the northeastern Thai province of Buriram had been hoping and praying for.
“When I got the call on (Wednesday, Jan 29) evening from the Thai Embassy (in Tel Aviv) that five Thai hostages will be released, I was really happy. I couldn’t sleep all night,” he told CNA, his voice shaking with emotion.
