Five Thai farm workers who were abducted during the 7 October attacks by Hamas on Israel have been released after being held for almost 500 days in Gaza. They were handed over to the Red Cross during chaotic scenes along with two Israelis,

In the wake of the attack, some 7,000 returned home, primarily on government evacuation flights, but higher wages have continued to attract new arrivals. Thai ambassador to Israel Pannabha Chandraramya said Thursday that there are now more than 38,000 Thai workers in the country.

The five hostages were among the 31 Thai agricultural workers who were captured by Hamas from four farms close to the Gaza border. Earlier, 23 hostages were released and two, Sudthisak Rinthalak and Sonthaya Oakkharasri, were confirmed dead in May of last year.