ISTANBUL

Thailand is working closely with Iran to ensure the safe passage of Thai vessels through the Strait of Hormuz amid an escalating Middle East conflict, a deputy spokesman of Bangkok's Foreign Ministry said on Monday.

Panidone Pachimsawat told reporters that coordination with Iranian authorities is ongoing to make sure that Thai commercial vessels navigate the area safely, Bangkok Post reported.

While some vessels have already been able to pass through, discussions must continue to assist others still stranded in the Persian Gulf, he said

Regarding the three Thai crew members who went missing following an attack on a ship in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this month, Panidone said that Bangkok has sent a letter to Tehran to urge swift assistance.

He urged Thai nationals in high-risk areas to leave as soon as possible and to closely follow official advisories.

Thailand imports 56% of its energy supplies, valued at roughly $43 billion in 2024, from Gulf nations.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for energy supplies to most Asian nations, remains under effective blockade by Iran, which is currently at war with the US and Israel since late February.