KUT YANG, Udon Thani - A somber gathering took place at a local church

as the Sriaoun family, supported by their community, united in prayer for the safe return of their eldest son, Watchara Sriaoun, who is believed to be one of six Thais held hostage by Hamas in Gaza. The pain was palpable as their tear-filled hymns echoed through the sacred space, underscoring the desperate hope of a family torn apart by conflict.

Background on Watchara's Abduction

Watchara, 32, was abducted during Hamas’s sudden attack on Israel on October 7, 2022, which claimed the lives of around 1,200 civilians, as reported by local authorities. Since that harrowing day, the Sriaoun family has held weekly prayers, but the passage of time has brought little news and even less comfort.

A Mother's Plea for Answers

"We can only pray to God," expressed Wiwwaro Sriaoun, 53, Watchara's mother, her voice quivering with emotion. "Asking people doesn't give us answers, and even the village chief or headman cannot confirm anything." The helplessness she feels is shared by many families affected by this crisis, which has left a trail of unresolved anguish.

Impact on the Thai Community

The horrifying October 7 attack also left a significant toll on the Thai community working in Israel, as at least 41 Thai nationals were confirmed killed, while 30 migrant laborers were abducted by Hamas. The Thai foreign ministry reports that six hostages remain unaccounted for, heightening the tragedy for their families back home.

Government Response

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently reached out to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, seeking support for the rescue of the remaining Thai hostages, demonstrating the Thai government's ongoing commitment to this humanitarian effort.

The Economic Background

Before the conflict erupted, more than 30,000 Thai laborers, many like Watchara, sought employment in Israel's agricultural sector, often sending money back home to support their families. Watchara and his younger brother embarked on this journey in 2020, motivated by the need to alleviate a family debt of around 300,000 baht and to fund their father's medical needs. They regularly sent 50,000 baht monthly back to Thailand, paving the way for a brighter future for their loved ones.

A Bittersweet Turn of Events

In a bittersweet turn of events, the younger brother has since returned home, responding to their mother's heartfelt pleas. Encouraged by part of the 3 million baht compensation received from the Israeli government in July, the family has managed to pay off their debts and even purchase land that Watchara had promised to buy for his mother.

Emotional Toll on the Family

The emotional toll on the family grows heavier each day, especially on Watchara's 9-year-old daughter, Irada, who has already faced the loss of her mother just a month prior. "I wish for this brutal war to end," Wiwwaro lamented, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Everyone has suffered enough, and I have suffered enough too, waiting for my son."

Hope Amidst Despair

As the conflict continues to wreak havoc in the region, the plight of families like the Sriaouns serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war. The community stands united, offering prayers and support, while the hope for peace and the safe return of the hostages remains a collective wish shared by all. Will the prayers be answered? Only time will tell.