April 20, 2026
BANGKOK – Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Iranian measures restricting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have severely disrupted international logistics, leaving several Thai cargo vessels stranded in the area and unable to continue their journeys.
To help address the crisis, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow paid an official visit to Oman on April 15-17, 2026.
In addition to strengthening bilateral ties, he sought Oman’s cooperation in acting as an intermediary with Iran to help secure the release of Thai vessels still stranded in the area.
Most recently, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs received good news from executives of The Siam Cement Public Company Limited, or SCG, that one of the company’s two vessels for which assistance had been sought has now been permitted to depart the Strait of Hormuz.
The government said it would continue monitoring the situation until the vessel reaches Thailand safely, while stepping up efforts to help the remaining ship return as soon as possible.