King Maha Vajiralongkorn and his Queen have arrived in Beijing for a landmark state visit, marking the first visit by a reigning Thai monarch to China in 50 years of diplomatic relations. Hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping, the visit highlights the strengthening of bilateral ties, including cooperation in infrastructure, digital economy, and cultural exchanges.

Historic Moment: Thai Monarchs Visit China for First Time in 800 Years

The lifeless body of a 31-year-old Thai model, Kaikan Kaennakam, was discovered in a morgue in Bahrain, more than a year after she vanished from her social media and stopped answering calls from her family, who lives in Thailand.&nbsp;

Kaikan's journey, which met with a sad ending, started off from the glitz of the modeling world. When opportunities stopped coming her way she decided to move to Bahrain and took up a job in a restaurant to support her family back in Thailand.

Even away from home, Kaikan remained closely connected to her loved ones and regularly updated them via social media. She even disclosed her relationship with her Bahraini boyfriend, with whom she had moved in.

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However, concern arose when Kaikan suddenly vanished from online platforms in April 2023. Her family's frantic attempts to reach her proved futile. The family then sought aid from the Thai embassy in their quest to locate her.

Thai embassy in Bahrain on April 18, 2024, delivered the devastating news - an unidentified Southeast Asian woman's body discovered in a local morgue matched Kaikan's description.

This was after a distinctive tattoo on her leg ultimately led to her identification. It was shocking news for the family especially considering the fact that she had been lying unidentified for over a year.&nbsp;

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The official cause of death cited acute lung and heart failure from alcohol poisoning. However, suspicions linger within Kaikan's family, fueled by alleged bruising visible in social media photographs of her body shared before her death.&nbsp;

Suthida Ngernthaworn, Kaikan’s sister, expressed her doubts and pointed out the evidence of bruising and cuts on Kaikan's body in social media posts.

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She said, "The embassy in Bahrain documented the cause of death as alcohol intoxication, but her body photos contained bruises.

"We could not bring her body back because repatriation is expensive... My mum also wants the case to be reopened, and for an autopsy to be conducted again." Efforts to repatriate Kaikan's remains face financial hurdles as the family lacks&nbsp;travel insurance.

<h2>Cause of the death under suspicion&nbsp;</h2>

Seeking justice, the family sought the support of Paveena Hongsakul, a philanthropist dedicated to women and children's welfare in Thailand.&nbsp;Paveena during a presser said, "Thai women should assess carefully if they want to work abroad." "There are risks of being tricked into prostitution, human trafficking, or drug rings." Paveena has coordinated with the Police General Hospital to conduct a fresh examination of Kaikan's body.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The lifeless body of a 31-year-old Thai model, Kaikan Kaennakam, was discovered in a morgue in Bahrain, more than a year after she vanished from her social media and stopped answering calls from her family, who lives in Thailand.

The lifeless body of a 31-year-old Thai model, Kaikan Kaennakam, was discovered in a morgue in Bahrain, more than a year after she vanished from her social media and stopped answering calls from her family, who lives in Thailand. Kaikan's journey, which met with a sad ending, started off from the glitz of the modeling world. When opportunities stopped coming her way she decided to move to Bahrain and took up a job in a restaurant to support her family back in Thailand. Even away from home, Kaikan remained closely connected to her loved ones and regularly updated them via social media. She even disclosed her relationship with her Bahraini boyfriend, with whom she had moved in. Also Read | Sri Lanka leases Chinese-built Mattala Rajapaksa Int'l Airport to Indian, Russian firms amid debt woes However, concern arose when Kaikan suddenly vanished from online platforms in April 2023. Her family's frantic attempts to reach her proved futile. The family then sought aid from the Thai embassy in their quest to locate her. Thai embassy in Bahrain on April 18, 2024, delivered the devastating news - an unidentified Southeast Asian woman's body discovered in a local morgue matched Kaikan's description. This was after a distinctive tattoo on her leg ultimately led to her identification. It was shocking news for the family especially considering the fact that she had been lying unidentified for over a year. Also Read | Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; ‘he gave me a ring’ The official cause of death cited acute lung and heart failure from alcohol poisoning. However, suspicions linger within Kaikan's family, fueled by alleged bruising visible in social media photographs of her body shared before her death. Suthida Ngernthaworn, Kaikan’s sister, expressed her doubts and pointed out the evidence of bruising and cuts on Kaikan's body in social media posts. Watch | South Africa marks 30 years since first post-apartheid election | Race To Power × She said, "The embassy in Bahrain documented the cause of death as alcohol intoxication, but her body photos contained bruises. "We could not bring her body back because repatriation is expensive... My mum also wants the case to be reopened, and for an autopsy to be conducted again." Efforts to repatriate Kaikan's remains face financial hurdles as the family lacks travel insurance. Cause of the death under suspicion Seeking justice, the family sought the support of Paveena Hongsakul, a philanthropist dedicated to women and children's welfare in Thailand. Paveena during a presser said, "Thai women should assess carefully if they want to work abroad." "There are risks of being tricked into prostitution, human trafficking, or drug rings." Paveena has coordinated with the Police General Hospital to conduct a fresh examination of Kaikan's body. (With inputs from agencies)

Thai model's mysterious death in Bahrain sparks family's demand for probe

India has taken a firm stance against the remarks made by Thailand's Ambassador Pimchanok Vonkorpon Pitfield to the World Trade Organization (WTO)&nbsp;in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;

The remarks reportedly targeted India's public stockholding program, a critical component of its agricultural policy, aiming to support farmers by ensuring stable prices for essential crops and maintaining food security for its population.

Notably, this program has been a subject of discussion and negotiation at the World Trade Organization (WTO) due to concerns about its potential impact on global trade dynamics.

Reports citing sources said that Pitfield's comments were 'offensive' in nature and criticised India's rice procurement program.&nbsp;Pitfield blamed the program and said that the country is exporting 40 percent of procured rice for its Public Distribution Systems (PDS) to boost its export market.&nbsp;

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The comment&nbsp;sparked tensions following which India&nbsp;lodged a strong protest and the Thai&nbsp;Ambassador was replaced.

"The Thai Ambassador has been replaced. She has ridiculed India's public stockholding programme," media reports said citing a source.&nbsp;

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“It was the tone used, which was offensive and this remark was followed by members of the Cairns grouping applauding the comment. Bharat took objection to what was said, and the manner, in which it was said,” a separate report added quoting sources.&nbsp;

<h2>WTO meet in Abu Dhabi&nbsp;</h2>

Delegates from around the world had converged in Abu Dhabi for the 5-day World Trade Organization&nbsp;(WTO) Ministerial meet on Monday (Feb 26), where discussions on global trade rules commenced. Highlighting the disparities in global e-commerce, India underscored the dominance of a few firms from developed countries.

Despite the&nbsp;discussions for days, the 13th Ministerial Conference of the WTO concluded on March 1 without significant decisions on crucial issues such as finding a permanent solution to public food stockpiling and curbing fisheries subsidies.

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However, an agreement was reportedly reached to extend the moratorium on import duties for e-commerce trade for additional two years, providing temporary relief amidst unresolved disputes.

WTO is an international organisation that regulates international trade between nations. It was established on January 1, 1995, succeeding the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), which had been in place since 1948.

The WTO serves as a forum for negotiating trade agreements, settling disputes between member countries, and monitoring national trade policies to ensure compliance with established rules.

(With inputs from agencies)

India has taken a firm stance against the remarks made by Thailand's Ambassador Pimchanok Vonkorpon Pitfield to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Abu Dhabi. The remarks reportedly targeted India's public stockholding program, a critical component of its agricultural policy, aiming to support farmers by ensuring stable prices for essential crops and maintaining food security for its population.

India has taken a firm stance against the remarks made by Thailand's Ambassador Pimchanok Vonkorpon Pitfield to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Abu Dhabi. The remarks reportedly targeted India's public stockholding program, a critical component of its agricultural policy, aiming to support farmers by ensuring stable prices for essential crops and maintaining food security for its population. Notably, this program has been a subject of discussion and negotiation at the World Trade Organization (WTO) due to concerns about its potential impact on global trade dynamics. Reports citing sources said that Pitfield's comments were 'offensive' in nature and criticised India's rice procurement program. Pitfield blamed the program and said that the country is exporting 40 percent of procured rice for its Public Distribution Systems (PDS) to boost its export market. Also Read | LeT's Azam Cheema, key conspirator of 26/11 Mumbai attacks, dies in Pakistan: Reports The comment sparked tensions following which India lodged a strong protest and the Thai Ambassador was replaced. "The Thai Ambassador has been replaced. She has ridiculed India's public stockholding programme," media reports said citing a source. Also Read | Indian classical dancer Amarnath Ghosh shot dead in US, actor friend seeks New Delhi's help “It was the tone used, which was offensive and this remark was followed by members of the Cairns grouping applauding the comment. Bharat took objection to what was said, and the manner, in which it was said,” a separate report added quoting sources. WTO meet in Abu Dhabi Delegates from around the world had converged in Abu Dhabi for the 5-day World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial meet on Monday (Feb 26), where discussions on global trade rules commenced. Highlighting the disparities in global e-commerce, India underscored the dominance of a few firms from developed countries. Despite the discussions for days, the 13th Ministerial Conference of the WTO concluded on March 1 without significant decisions on crucial issues such as finding a permanent solution to public food stockpiling and curbing fisheries subsidies. Watch | Musk: OpenAI has abandoned its mission of AI for humanity × However, an agreement was reportedly reached to extend the moratorium on import duties for e-commerce trade for additional two years, providing temporary relief amidst unresolved disputes. WTO is an international organisation that regulates international trade between nations. It was established on January 1, 1995, succeeding the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), which had been in place since 1948. The WTO serves as a forum for negotiating trade agreements, settling disputes between member countries, and monitoring national trade policies to ensure compliance with established rules. (With inputs from agencies)

India strongly objects to Thai envoy's remarks at WTO meet in Abu Dhabi: Reports

In a new verdict now a Thailand Court reinstated popular politician Pita Limjaroenrat as a lawmaker after finding him not guilty of violating any election law.

Thai court clears PM hopeful Pita Limjaroenrat of charges

Against the backdrop of Israel-Hamas tensions, the return of freed Thai hostages in Bangkok and their reunions with loved ones came as heart-warming news. Their journey back home after weeks of&nbsp;uncertainty culminated in a warm welcome by families and communities awaiting them at the Bangkok airport.

Their arrival at the Suvarnabhumi Airport on Thursday (Nov 30) evening was eagerly awaited by some of their families.&nbsp;

"I'm overjoyed. I can't wait for her to come home," Bunyarin Srichan reportedly said on the release of daughter Nattawaree "Yo" Mulka, the only female Thai hostage held captive by the Islamist militant group.

Chanapa, who reached Bangkok to receive brother Buddee Saengbun said, "We haven't had any sleep."&nbsp;

"Hugs. Hugs and tears," she said while speaking of her plans once she had met her brother. "One month and 18 days. We've been counting each day."&nbsp;

Amid repatriation efforts, nearly 9,000 from the conflict region have returned to Thailand, with the citizens released from Hamas captivity returning home as Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara&nbsp;visited&nbsp;Israel.

While six recently released Thai hostages remain in Israel for medical examinations, others who have been freed were accompanied back to Thailand by Parnpree.

Some of the Thai hostages reportedly revealed that Jewish hostages endured harsher treatment, including beatings with electric cables, compared to the Thai hostages.

A Thai worker, who spent over seven weeks in captivity, reported that the Jewish captives were under constant guard, faced tougher conditions, and were subjected to physical abuse.

He recounted meager rations, with one pita a day and occasional sharing of a tin of tuna among four people.

Additionally, the Thais&nbsp;also spoke of the limited opportunity for showers during their captivity.

“We were with Israelis, and they were guarded all the time,” a man reportedly said. “The Jews who were held with me were treated very harshly, sometimes they were beaten with electric cables.”

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Before the Israel-Hamas war, around 30,000 Thai labourers worked in Israel's agriculture sector.

Hamas' attack on October 7 on Israel resulted in the tragic death of 39 Thai nationals among the 1,200 casualties.

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<h2>Forced to watch horror unfolded on October 7</h2>

Deborah Cohen revealed the harrowing experiences her 12-year-old nephew Eitan Yahalomi&nbsp;endured during his 52 days in Hamas captivity.

Cohen reportedly shared, "When he arrived in Gaza, all of the residents, all of them, beat him up. He’s a 12-year-old child." She further disclosed that threats with rifles were used to silence crying children.

Expressing concern about the treatment of her nephew, Cohen stated, "I wanted to hope that he was treated well, but it turns out he wasn’t; they’re monsters."

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Cohen recounted her nephew's ordeal, mentioning that "Hamas forced him to watch horror videos" depicting the atrocities committed by the terror group during the October 7 onslaught in southern Israel, where at least 1,200 people were killed, and around 240 were taken hostage.

The distressing account raised alarms about the well-being of those still in captivity and the severity of the psychological impact on the children held by Hamas.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Against the backdrop of Israel-Hamas tensions, the return of freed Thai hostages in Bangkok and their reunions with loved ones came as heart-warming news. Their journey back home after weeks of uncertainty culminated in a warm welcome by families and communities awaiting them at the Bangkok airport.

Against the backdrop of Israel-Hamas tensions, the return of freed Thai hostages in Bangkok and their reunions with loved ones came as heart-warming news. Their journey back home after weeks of uncertainty culminated in a warm welcome by families and communities awaiting them at the Bangkok airport. Their arrival at the Suvarnabhumi Airport on Thursday (Nov 30) evening was eagerly awaited by some of their families. "I'm overjoyed. I can't wait for her to come home," Bunyarin Srichan reportedly said on the release of daughter Nattawaree "Yo" Mulka, the only female Thai hostage held captive by the Islamist militant group. Chanapa, who reached Bangkok to receive brother Buddee Saengbun said, "We haven't had any sleep." "Hugs. Hugs and tears," she said while speaking of her plans once she had met her brother. "One month and 18 days. We've been counting each day." Amid repatriation efforts, nearly 9,000 from the conflict region have returned to Thailand, with the citizens released from Hamas captivity returning home as Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara visited Israel. While six recently released Thai hostages remain in Israel for medical examinations, others who have been freed were accompanied back to Thailand by Parnpree. Some of the Thai hostages reportedly revealed that Jewish hostages endured harsher treatment, including beatings with electric cables, compared to the Thai hostages. A Thai worker, who spent over seven weeks in captivity, reported that the Jewish captives were under constant guard, faced tougher conditions, and were subjected to physical abuse. He recounted meager rations, with one pita a day and occasional sharing of a tin of tuna among four people. Additionally, the Thais also spoke of the limited opportunity for showers during their captivity. “We were with Israelis, and they were guarded all the time,” a man reportedly said. “The Jews who were held with me were treated very harshly, sometimes they were beaten with electric cables.” Also Read | If Trump convicted, Home Depot billionaire says he'd still likely fund campaign Before the Israel-Hamas war, around 30,000 Thai labourers worked in Israel's agriculture sector. Hamas' attack on October 7 on Israel resulted in the tragic death of 39 Thai nationals among the 1,200 casualties. Also Read | Who is Liat Beinin Atzili? Freed American hostage who worked at Israel's Holocaust memorial Forced to watch horror unfolded on October 7 Deborah Cohen revealed the harrowing experiences her 12-year-old nephew Eitan Yahalomi endured during his 52 days in Hamas captivity. Cohen reportedly shared, "When he arrived in Gaza, all of the residents, all of them, beat him up. He’s a 12-year-old child." She further disclosed that threats with rifles were used to silence crying children. Expressing concern about the treatment of her nephew, Cohen stated, "I wanted to hope that he was treated well, but it turns out he wasn’t; they’re monsters." Watch | W.H.O warns Gaza over rising diseases; 3 killed in Jerusalem attack × Cohen recounted her nephew's ordeal, mentioning that "Hamas forced him to watch horror videos" depicting the atrocities committed by the terror group during the October 7 onslaught in southern Israel, where at least 1,200 people were killed, and around 240 were taken hostage. The distressing account raised alarms about the well-being of those still in captivity and the severity of the psychological impact on the children held by Hamas. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israel-Hamas war: Hugs, tears, joyous reunions as Thai hostages return to Bangkok

A Thai worker who was recently released by Hamas seven weeks after being taken hostage said the Palestinian militants beat up Israelis who were kept along with him, reported the Israeli media.&nbsp;

A plane carrying 17 Thai hostages freed by Hamas landed in Bangkok on Thursday (Nov 30) said the country's foreign ministry. Family members waited to greet the freed captives at Bangkok’s main airport.

At least 13 Thai nationals remain in Hamas captivity.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Thai Foreign Minister &nbsp;Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara was seen holding back tears as he welcomed fellow Thais released to Israel by Hamas.&nbsp;

<h2>Thai hostage recalls time in Hamas captivity</h2>

One of the Thais told&nbsp;the Israeli Army about his experience while in Hamas captivity and said that Israelis being held with him were being treated extremely harshly compared to the other foreign nationals.

“I was with Israelis, and there were guards all the time. The Jews who were with me were treated more harshly. Sometimes they were beaten with electrical cables,” said the Thai national, as quoted by Times of Israel.&nbsp;

He said the compound where they were held was “quite large”.

He recalled how he would walk around counting steps to pass the time, Israeli media quoted him as saying. “One pita a day. Sometimes there were cans of tuna that the four of us shared,” he said, adding that there was very little food for the hostages to eat.

He added, “Sometimes there was a piece of cheese. Once, they let us shower.”

<h2>‘We survived! We survived!’</h2>

Two more Thai workers were set free on Tuesday (Nov 28), bringing the total number of Thai nationals released to 23.

“We survived! We survived!” Thai workers cheered upon their arrival at Shamir Medical Center, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

“We are not part of the conflict,” Parnpree told Reuters in an interview later on Wednesday after an emotional meeting with the workers a day prior.&nbsp;

Parnpree also spoke about how he held talks with several countries in the Middle East with Hamas contacts to secure the release of Thai nationals who continue to remain in contact with him and send him updates about the release of hostages even before the news breaks.

“I went around to speak to various countries who can connect with the Hamas group to explain that the Thai workers are innocent, they are not involved in politics, they are not part of anyone's conflict, and they probably don't even know how the situation came to be, who's fighting with whom. They were there to earn a living,” the Thai FM told Reuters.&nbsp;

Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and Thai minister visited 17 freed Thai hostages at the medical centre where they were being treated upon their release.

“Israel is committed to bringing back all the hostages, Israelis and foreigners alike,” said Cohen.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

A Thai worker who was recently released by Hamas seven weeks after being taken hostage said the Palestinian militants beat up Israelis who were kept along with him, reported the Israeli media.

A Thai worker who was recently released by Hamas seven weeks after being taken hostage said the Palestinian militants beat up Israelis who were kept along with him, reported the Israeli media. A plane carrying 17 Thai hostages freed by Hamas landed in Bangkok on Thursday (Nov 30) said the country's foreign ministry. Family members waited to greet the freed captives at Bangkok’s main airport. At least 13 Thai nationals remain in Hamas captivity. On Wednesday, Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara was seen holding back tears as he welcomed fellow Thais released to Israel by Hamas. Thai hostage recalls time in Hamas captivity One of the Thais told the Israeli Army about his experience while in Hamas captivity and said that Israelis being held with him were being treated extremely harshly compared to the other foreign nationals. “I was with Israelis, and there were guards all the time. The Jews who were with me were treated more harshly. Sometimes they were beaten with electrical cables,” said the Thai national, as quoted by Times of Israel. He said the compound where they were held was “quite large”. He recalled how he would walk around counting steps to pass the time, Israeli media quoted him as saying. “One pita a day. Sometimes there were cans of tuna that the four of us shared,” he said, adding that there was very little food for the hostages to eat. He added, “Sometimes there was a piece of cheese. Once, they let us shower.” ‘We survived! We survived!’ Two more Thai workers were set free on Tuesday (Nov 28), bringing the total number of Thai nationals released to 23. “We survived! We survived!” Thai workers cheered upon their arrival at Shamir Medical Center, as per Reuters. “We are not part of the conflict,” Parnpree told Reuters in an interview later on Wednesday after an emotional meeting with the workers a day prior. Parnpree also spoke about how he held talks with several countries in the Middle East with Hamas contacts to secure the release of Thai nationals who continue to remain in contact with him and send him updates about the release of hostages even before the news breaks. “I went around to speak to various countries who can connect with the Hamas group to explain that the Thai workers are innocent, they are not involved in politics, they are not part of anyone's conflict, and they probably don't even know how the situation came to be, who's fighting with whom. They were there to earn a living,” the Thai FM told Reuters. Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and Thai minister visited 17 freed Thai hostages at the medical centre where they were being treated upon their release. “Israel is committed to bringing back all the hostages, Israelis and foreigners alike,” said Cohen. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israel-Hamas war: Freed Thai hostage recalls experience in Hamas captivity, says Israelis were beaten

Emotions swelled as many families reunited after the first batch of hostages were released by Hamas from Gaza amid a temporary truce on Friday (Nov 24). 
 
Among the Thai nationals released, the family of Vetoon Phoome had feared that he had been killed by Hamas in the October 7 attack, until they found out that he was freed along with other Thai hostages in Gaza. 
 
"He told me not to cry, to tell mother I'm coming back," said Vetoon's sister Roongarun Wichagern, while speaking to Reuters after speaking to his brother via video call. 
 
33-year-old Vetoon, who has been living in Israel since five years, was among the 10 Thai hostages released by Hamas during the first temporary truce of the war which has been going on for seven weeks and started with the October 7 assault of the Palestinian terror group on southern Israel.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-receives-second-list-of-hostages-set-to-be-released-by-hamas-on-saturday-662599">Israel receives second list of hostages to be released by Hamas on Saturday</a>

"He said, 'I'm not dead, I'm not dead'," said Roongarun, while calling his survival a "miracle". 
 
The 10 Thais were part of the hostages who were freed on Friday in a deal which was negotiated as part of the truce, under which 39 Palestinian prisoners were released from Israeli jails. The government of Thailand said that 20 of its nationals are still captive. 
 
Thailand's foreign minister and army chief are set to travel to Israel to bring the freed hostages back, said Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin while speaking to reporters. He added that his government was trying to secure the release of the rest of the captives. "We will not stop. We will bring them back," he stated. 
 
Taking to social media, Iran's Embassy in Bangkok said that the release was facilitated by Tehran by providing a list of names to Hamas after Thailand's foreign ministry and a parliamentary speaker made a request for the same. 
 
A Thai foreign ministry spokesperson stated that Thailand had "provided lists since the beginning to everyone," including Egypt, Qatar, Iran and Israel. "Different actors would have different influence on Hamas," the spokesperson stated.

<h2>'I dreamt we came home', says freed four-year-old Israeli girl</h2>

Four-year-old Israeli girl Raz Asher, who was released along with her little sister and mother, while sitting in her father's arms on a hospital bed said, "I dreamt we came home.” Her father Yoni replied, "Now the dream came true.”

Watch:&nbsp;Hostage release: Hamas frees 13 Israelis, 10 Thai citizens and 1 Filipino citizen

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Raz along with her two-year-old sister, Aviv and mother Doron and was released was released on Friday (Nov 24). Yoni Asher was at home when his wife along with the two girls had gone to visit their grandmother in Kibbutz Nir Oz, which is near the border with Gaza. 
 
After the attack, he eventually lost contact with his wife and later saw a video on social media in which her wife and two daughters were being taken to Gaza. "We'll be going home soon," Yoni said to Raz, in the footage shared by Schneider Children's Medical Centre, which has been treating children who are in comparatively good condition.

(With inputs from agencies)

Emotions swelled as many families reunited after the first batch of hostages were released by Hamas from Gaza amid a temporary truce on Friday (Nov 24). Among the Thai nationals released, the family of Vetoon Phoome had feared that he had been killed by Hamas in the October 7 attack, until they found out that he was freed along with other Thai hostages in Gaza.

Emotions swelled as many families reunited after the first batch of hostages were released by Hamas from Gaza amid a temporary truce on Friday (Nov 24). Among the Thai nationals released, the family of Vetoon Phoome had feared that he had been killed by Hamas in the October 7 attack, until they found out that he was freed along with other Thai hostages in Gaza. "He told me not to cry, to tell mother I'm coming back," said Vetoon's sister Roongarun Wichagern, while speaking to Reuters after speaking to his brother via video call. 33-year-old Vetoon, who has been living in Israel since five years, was among the 10 Thai hostages released by Hamas during the first temporary truce of the war which has been going on for seven weeks and started with the October 7 assault of the Palestinian terror group on southern Israel. Also read: Israel receives second list of hostages to be released by Hamas on Saturday "He said, 'I'm not dead, I'm not dead'," said Roongarun, while calling his survival a "miracle". The 10 Thais were part of the hostages who were freed on Friday in a deal which was negotiated as part of the truce, under which 39 Palestinian prisoners were released from Israeli jails. The government of Thailand said that 20 of its nationals are still captive. Thailand's foreign minister and army chief are set to travel to Israel to bring the freed hostages back, said Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin while speaking to reporters. He added that his government was trying to secure the release of the rest of the captives. "We will not stop. We will bring them back," he stated. Taking to social media, Iran's Embassy in Bangkok said that the release was facilitated by Tehran by providing a list of names to Hamas after Thailand's foreign ministry and a parliamentary speaker made a request for the same. A Thai foreign ministry spokesperson stated that Thailand had "provided lists since the beginning to everyone," including Egypt, Qatar, Iran and Israel. "Different actors would have different influence on Hamas," the spokesperson stated. 'I dreamt we came home', says freed four-year-old Israeli girl Four-year-old Israeli girl Raz Asher, who was released along with her little sister and mother, while sitting in her father's arms on a hospital bed said, "I dreamt we came home.” Her father Yoni replied, "Now the dream came true.” Watch: Hostage release: Hamas frees 13 Israelis, 10 Thai citizens and 1 Filipino citizen Raz along with her two-year-old sister, Aviv and mother Doron and was released was released on Friday (Nov 24). Yoni Asher was at home when his wife along with the two girls had gone to visit their grandmother in Kibbutz Nir Oz, which is near the border with Gaza. After the attack, he eventually lost contact with his wife and later saw a video on social media in which her wife and two daughters were being taken to Gaza. "We'll be going home soon," Yoni said to Raz, in the footage shared by Schneider Children's Medical Centre, which has been treating children who are in comparatively good condition. (With inputs from agencies)

Emotions swell as families reunite, freed Thai hostage says 'not dead' after miracle release

One week before Miss Universe 2023, Thai media company JKN Group filed for bankruptcy.

Miss Universe’s Thai owner JKN files for bankruptcy days before the 72nd pageant

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.

As Israel braces for a vote on Jordan's resolution at the UN General Assembly seeking a ceasefire in Gaza, the country's ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, on Thursday (Oct 26) played out a very disturbing video during his address which allegedly showed Hamas militants attacking a Thai woman with a garden hoe.&nbsp;

Revealing what he said is the "true face of Hamas," the envoy in a post on X social media platform wrote, "This is not Auschwitz - it's Hamas! We are not fighting against humans - we are fighting monsters! Israel will not stop until Hamas is destroyed! This is what I said at the General Assembly podium when I showed footage of Israeli civilians burnt alive by Hamas and of Hamas savages beheading a wounded Thai civilian. His crime? Being alive in Israel."&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-social-media-scrambles-to-scrub-spoof-videos-mocking-palestinians-651829">Israel-Hamas war: Social media scrambles to scrub spoof videos mocking Palestinians</a>

According to reports, the video was from the onslaught by Hamas that ensued on October 7 in southern Israel, an unprecedented attack on Israel that allegedly&nbsp;involved butchering civilians, beheading babies, setting houses on fire, and abducting many Israelis and foreign nationals, and taking them to&nbsp;Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

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This is not Auschwitz - it's Hamas! We are not fighting against humans - we are fighting monsters! Israel will not stop until Hamas is destroyed! 
 
This is what I said at the General Assembly podium when I showed footage of Israeli civilians burnt alive by Hamas and of Hamas… <a href="https://t.co/9ncVdog3us">pic.twitter.com/9ncVdog3us</a>
— Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) <a href="https://twitter.com/giladerdan1/status/1717613255936352479?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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UNGA members are expected to vote on a&nbsp;Jordanian resolution on Friday (Oct 27). Reports say that the resolution is anticipated to pass as a majority of the members back Palestinians.

However, UNGA resolutions are non-binding and may have little effect on the ground situation.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-hits-back-after-iran-backed-militant-groups-in-syria-escalate-attack-on-troops-651782">US hits back after Iran-backed militant groups in Syria escalate attack on troops</a>

The text of the resolution moved by Jordan, representing the Arab countries, is also seeking the release of hostages held captive by Hamas, ensuring the safety of civilians, and "unhindered" humanitarian access for Palestinians stranded in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

<h2>Palestine can't vote&nbsp;</h2>

Palestine, being just a non-member observer at the UN General Assembly and not recognised in the UN Charter, will not be able to cast its vote.&nbsp;Meanwhile, each of the 193 members of UNGA will get the opportunity to vote on Gaza which is being pounded relentlessly by Israeli airstrikes.&nbsp;

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Earlier, two UNSC resolutions failed to pass. As the war prolongs and takes a toll on the well-being of Palestinians stuck in war-ravaged Gaza, Russia and China vetoed the United States-led resolution at the Security Council which called for Israel's right to self-defence and "humanitarian pauses".

Meanwhile, the Russia-led resolution that called for a humanitarian ceasefire also failed to garner enough support, winning only four votes while a resolution needs at least nine.&nbsp;

Palestine’s UN ambassador Riyad Mansour in an emotional speech to the UNGA on October 26 appealed&nbsp;members "to vote to stop the killing. Vote for humanitarian aid to reach those whose very survival depends on it. Vote to stop this madness".

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. As Israel braces for a vote on Jordan's resolution at the UN General Assembly seeking a ceasefire in Gaza, the country's ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, on Thursday (Oct 26) played out a very disturbing video during his address which allegedly showed Hamas militants attacking a Thai woman with a garden hoe.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. As Israel braces for a vote on Jordan's resolution at the UN General Assembly seeking a ceasefire in Gaza, the country's ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, on Thursday (Oct 26) played out a very disturbing video during his address which allegedly showed Hamas militants attacking a Thai woman with a garden hoe. Revealing what he said is the "true face of Hamas," the envoy in a post on X social media platform wrote, "This is not Auschwitz - it's Hamas! We are not fighting against humans - we are fighting monsters! Israel will not stop until Hamas is destroyed! This is what I said at the General Assembly podium when I showed footage of Israeli civilians burnt alive by Hamas and of Hamas savages beheading a wounded Thai civilian. His crime? Being alive in Israel." Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Social media scrambles to scrub spoof videos mocking Palestinians According to reports, the video was from the onslaught by Hamas that ensued on October 7 in southern Israel, an unprecedented attack on Israel that allegedly involved butchering civilians, beheading babies, setting houses on fire, and abducting many Israelis and foreign nationals, and taking them to Gaza Strip. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. This is not Auschwitz - it's Hamas! We are not fighting against humans - we are fighting monsters! Israel will not stop until Hamas is destroyed! This is what I said at the General Assembly podium when I showed footage of Israeli civilians burnt alive by Hamas and of Hamas… pic.twitter.com/9ncVdog3us — Ambassador Gilad Erdan גלעד ארדן (@giladerdan1) October 26, 2023 × UNGA members are expected to vote on a Jordanian resolution on Friday (Oct 27). Reports say that the resolution is anticipated to pass as a majority of the members back Palestinians. However, UNGA resolutions are non-binding and may have little effect on the ground situation. Also Read | US hits back after Iran-backed militant groups in Syria escalate attack on troops The text of the resolution moved by Jordan, representing the Arab countries, is also seeking the release of hostages held captive by Hamas, ensuring the safety of civilians, and "unhindered" humanitarian access for Palestinians stranded in the Gaza Strip. Palestine can't vote Palestine, being just a non-member observer at the UN General Assembly and not recognised in the UN Charter, will not be able to cast its vote. Meanwhile, each of the 193 members of UNGA will get the opportunity to vote on Gaza which is being pounded relentlessly by Israeli airstrikes. Watch | US strikes 2 Syrian facilities after attacks on its troops by Iran-backed groups × Earlier, two UNSC resolutions failed to pass. As the war prolongs and takes a toll on the well-being of Palestinians stuck in war-ravaged Gaza, Russia and China vetoed the United States-led resolution at the Security Council which called for Israel's right to self-defence and "humanitarian pauses". Meanwhile, the Russia-led resolution that called for a humanitarian ceasefire also failed to garner enough support, winning only four votes while a resolution needs at least nine. Palestine’s UN ambassador Riyad Mansour in an emotional speech to the UNGA on October 26 appealed members "to vote to stop the killing. Vote for humanitarian aid to reach those whose very survival depends on it. Vote to stop this madness". (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

TRIGGER WARNING: Israeli envoy plays video of Hamas trying to decapitate Thai worker with garden hoe 

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who reached the country after spending 15 years in self-imposed exile following the 2006 coup, was arrested upon arrival and the court jailed him for eight years, AFP reported.&nbsp;Thaksin, known for his success in the telecommunications industry, arrived in Thailand via a private plane from Singapore. The plane landed at Bangkok's Don Mueang airport at around 9 am local time on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Thailand has now been under a political impasse for the past three months post the May elections. Thailand's bicameral legislature&nbsp;is set to vote Tuesday to determine if the candidate from Shinawatra's&nbsp;Pheu Thai party, Srettha Thavisin, will be the next prime minister to lead the politically-divided country.&nbsp;

The sister of Thailand's former PM, Yingluck Shinawatra, who is also a former prime minister, shared a video on TikTok showing Thaksin leaving Singapore. As news of his arrival spread, supporters, all clad in red attire, celebrated his return with cheers, dancing, and singing.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-air-defence-intercepts-and-downs-two-attack-drones-near-moscow-627704">Russian Air Defence intercepts and downs two 'attack drones' near Moscow</a>

<h2>Political background and exile</h2>

Thaksin Shinawatra gained power in 2001. He was re-elected by securing a landslide victory in the following election five years later. However, in September 2006, while Thaksin was in New York preparing to address the United Nations, a military coup took control of the government.&nbsp;

Subsequently, Thaksin faced legal repercussions, including a conviction for abuse of power. This led to his decision to go into self-exile, with Dubai as his primary residence.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-threatens-thermonuclear-war-over-camp-david-summit-and-us-south-korea-drills-627702">North Korea threatens 'thermonuclear war' over Camp David summit and US-South Korea drills</a>

With the then-PM gone, Thailand plunged into a state of political instability, with both pro-Thaksin and rival pro-establishment groups engaging in street protests.

Watch | Beijing's fruit diplomacy turns sour as China bans imports of Taiwanese mangoes

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<h2>Thailand's current political impasse&nbsp;</h2>

In the most recent elections held in May, Thaksin's Pheu Thai party secured the second position. The progressive Move Forward party initially struggled to form a government due to the lack of support from military-appointed senators in the upper house. Subsequently, Pheu Thai managed to create a coalition comprising various parties, some with former military rivals.

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Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who reached the country after spending 15 years in self-imposed exile following the 2006 coup, was arrested upon arrival and the court jailed him for eight years, AFP reported.

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who reached the country after spending 15 years in self-imposed exile following the 2006 coup, was arrested upon arrival and the court jailed him for eight years, AFP reported. Thaksin, known for his success in the telecommunications industry, arrived in Thailand via a private plane from Singapore. The plane landed at Bangkok's Don Mueang airport at around 9 am local time on Tuesday. Thailand has now been under a political impasse for the past three months post the May elections. Thailand's bicameral legislature is set to vote Tuesday to determine if the candidate from Shinawatra's Pheu Thai party, Srettha Thavisin, will be the next prime minister to lead the politically-divided country. The sister of Thailand's former PM, Yingluck Shinawatra, who is also a former prime minister, shared a video on TikTok showing Thaksin leaving Singapore. As news of his arrival spread, supporters, all clad in red attire, celebrated his return with cheers, dancing, and singing. Also Read | Russian Air Defence intercepts and downs two 'attack drones' near Moscow Political background and exile Thaksin Shinawatra gained power in 2001. He was re-elected by securing a landslide victory in the following election five years later. However, in September 2006, while Thaksin was in New York preparing to address the United Nations, a military coup took control of the government. Subsequently, Thaksin faced legal repercussions, including a conviction for abuse of power. This led to his decision to go into self-exile, with Dubai as his primary residence. Also Read | North Korea threatens 'thermonuclear war' over Camp David summit and US-South Korea drills With the then-PM gone, Thailand plunged into a state of political instability, with both pro-Thaksin and rival pro-establishment groups engaging in street protests. Watch | Beijing's fruit diplomacy turns sour as China bans imports of Taiwanese mangoes × Thailand's current political impasse In the most recent elections held in May, Thaksin's Pheu Thai party secured the second position. The progressive Move Forward party initially struggled to form a government due to the lack of support from military-appointed senators in the upper house. Subsequently, Pheu Thai managed to create a coalition comprising various parties, some with former military rivals. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Fugitive ex-Thai PM, who arrived in Thailand after 15-year self-exile, jailed for 8 years

Thailand's constitutional court has suspended Pita from the Prime Ministerial place and from the country's Parliament. The suspension follows the court's acceptance of a case alleging that Pita was unqualified to run for the prime minister's Post in the upcoming elections.

Pita Limjaroenrat loses Thailand's parliament membership

Only 13 senators voted for Pita on Thursday, with the rest either abstaining or voting against his candidacy over his party's push to reform the so-called lese majeste law that punishes anyone defaming or insulting the Thai king or other royals.

Thailand's political stalemate continues as pita open door for Pheu Thai

In a shocking incident in Brussels, Belgium, a Thai Twitch streamer named Ppim became the target of a racist slur while streaming an "IRL" (In Real Life) session. The streamer was confronted by a group of individuals who deliberately greeted her in "Chinese" and made racial comments, aiming to mock her based on her Asian ethnicity.

Ppim was live-streaming on Twitch in Brussels when the distressing incident occurred.&nbsp;

As she was walking in Brussels, a few miscreants approached her and used the phrase "Ni hao," typically associated with the Chinese language, with the clear intent to ridicule her. Unwilling to tolerate such behavior, Ppim immediately addressed the miscreants on her live stream.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-will-join-nato-putin-has-lost-the-war-biden-in-helsinki-615245">Ukraine 'will join NATO', Putin has 'lost the war': Biden in Helsinki</a>

She courageously confronted them saying she was not from China, and urged them to educate themselves about different cultures and ethnicities.&nbsp;

A derogatory racial remark directed at Ppim provoked her anger leading to a swift response.&nbsp;In a video capturing the incident, Ppim can be seen confronting the individuals who had used the phrase "Ni hao" in a disrespectful manner.

In a strong and assertive tone, she expressed her frustration, and said that she does not hail from China but rather from Thailand.

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Her passionate reaction seen in the video clearly shows her refusal to tolerate such offensive behaviour.

"Ni hao. F**k you. I am not from China. I am from Thailand man. You f**king educate. Not everybody is from China. F**k you. You f**king bi*ch," Ppim can be seen&nbsp;saying in the video.&nbsp;

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Twitch streamer live-streaming racism she experienced in Belgium. <a href="https://t.co/PeAuaeJPKf">pic.twitter.com/PeAuaeJPKf</a>
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In addition to the racial slur, the video footage also revealed a disturbing moment when one of the men made an inappropriate attempt to touch Ppim, further compounding the distressing nature of the incident.

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This incident, in a broader sense, sheds light on the persisting issue of racial discrimination faced by individuals of Asian descent.

Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case, as racial abuses continue to plague various aspects of society.&nbsp;

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In a shocking incident in Brussels, Belgium, a Thai Twitch streamer named Ppim became the target of a racist slur while streaming an "IRL" (In Real Life) session.

In a shocking incident in Brussels, Belgium, a Thai Twitch streamer named Ppim became the target of a racist slur while streaming an "IRL" (In Real Life) session. The streamer was confronted by a group of individuals who deliberately greeted her in "Chinese" and made racial comments, aiming to mock her based on her Asian ethnicity. Ppim was live-streaming on Twitch in Brussels when the distressing incident occurred. As she was walking in Brussels, a few miscreants approached her and used the phrase "Ni hao," typically associated with the Chinese language, with the clear intent to ridicule her. Unwilling to tolerate such behavior, Ppim immediately addressed the miscreants on her live stream. Also Read | Ukraine 'will join NATO', Putin has 'lost the war': Biden in Helsinki She courageously confronted them saying she was not from China, and urged them to educate themselves about different cultures and ethnicities. A derogatory racial remark directed at Ppim provoked her anger leading to a swift response. In a video capturing the incident, Ppim can be seen confronting the individuals who had used the phrase "Ni hao" in a disrespectful manner. In a strong and assertive tone, she expressed her frustration, and said that she does not hail from China but rather from Thailand. Also Read | Cocaine at White House: Secret Service ends probe without finding suspect Her passionate reaction seen in the video clearly shows her refusal to tolerate such offensive behaviour. "Ni hao. F**k you. I am not from China. I am from Thailand man. You f**king educate. Not everybody is from China. F**k you. You f**king bi*ch," Ppim can be seen saying in the video. Twitch streamer live-streaming racism she experienced in Belgium. pic.twitter.com/PeAuaeJPKf — The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) July 13, 2023 × In addition to the racial slur, the video footage also revealed a disturbing moment when one of the men made an inappropriate attempt to touch Ppim, further compounding the distressing nature of the incident. Watch | Russian general says top military brass betrayed soldiers fighting in Ukraine × This incident, in a broader sense, sheds light on the persisting issue of racial discrimination faced by individuals of Asian descent. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case, as racial abuses continue to plague various aspects of society. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

WATCH | Thai Twitch streamer subjected to racist abuse in Belgium, confronts miscreants on live stream

Over 1,000 licensed cannabis dispensaries are operating on Thailand's Phuket, an island which is surrounded by many magnificent beaches and is also a top tourist destination.&nbsp;

But Thailand's relationship with cannabis has been of love-hate lately. As Thailand heads for elections on 7 May, cannabis remains a major election issue. The country's parliament last month had its final session on the cannabis draft bill. Nevertheless, the parliament did not approve it, leaving the nation without a comprehensive law that would have regulated its usage.

Cannabis advocates in Phuket recently formed the Phuket Cannabis Association to make their voices heard. The association organised its&nbsp;first Phuket Cannabis Cup competition which was won by Ativat Janmuangthai. He outperformed other cannabis advocates by rolling a flawless, one-gramme joint in 43 seconds. This set the record for the most speedy joint ever in Phuket, Thailand on Saturday.

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The 30-year-old winner received a monetary reward of 5,000 baht ($146.37), in addition to the title and trophy. It was a first-time gathering of professionals hoping to regulate guidelines for Thailand's cannabis industry. An international panel of judges also took part where they evaluated cannabis strains such as appearance, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels, terpenes, flavour, and genetic profiles.

The group's president, Poonwarit Wangpatravanich anticipates that after the elections legislation governing cannabis usage would be rushed through.

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"Imagine what's going to happen if people fly right to Thailand just because of that (cannabis use). We're going to increase such a large amount of GDP in tourism for the whole (of) Thailand," he said, reported Reuters. "The government should be very, very happy!".

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Meanwhile, Thailand's opposition has been saying that the recreational use of cannabis posed a threat to society and young people.&nbsp;

Cannabis is generally used for medicinal and recreational purposes. However, it can also cause negative side effects once individuals become addicted to its use. The plant remains illegal under federal law in many countries, although it has been legalized for medicinal or recreational use in some regions.&nbsp;

Thailand became the first Asian nation to legalize medicinal cannabis in 2022. The Thai government legalised it in June 2022, removing it from a list of medicines that were prohibited from use or sale. It further allowed its use for both medical and culinary purposes. Under the current regulations, patients with certain medical conditions can legally access cannabis for treatment. However, its public use can still result in penalties.&nbsp;

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Over 1,000 licensed cannabis dispensaries are operating on Thailand's Phuket, an island which is surrounded by many magnificent beaches and is also a top tourist destination.

Over 1,000 licensed cannabis dispensaries are operating on Thailand's Phuket, an island which is surrounded by many magnificent beaches and is also a top tourist destination. But Thailand's relationship with cannabis has been of love-hate lately. As Thailand heads for elections on 7 May, cannabis remains a major election issue. The country's parliament last month had its final session on the cannabis draft bill. Nevertheless, the parliament did not approve it, leaving the nation without a comprehensive law that would have regulated its usage. Cannabis advocates in Phuket recently formed the Phuket Cannabis Association to make their voices heard. The association organised its first Phuket Cannabis Cup competition which was won by Ativat Janmuangthai. He outperformed other cannabis advocates by rolling a flawless, one-gramme joint in 43 seconds. This set the record for the most speedy joint ever in Phuket, Thailand on Saturday. Also Read | Walmart lays off hundreds of US employees, gives them 90 days to find job at its other facilities The 30-year-old winner received a monetary reward of 5,000 baht ($146.37), in addition to the title and trophy. It was a first-time gathering of professionals hoping to regulate guidelines for Thailand's cannabis industry. An international panel of judges also took part where they evaluated cannabis strains such as appearance, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels, terpenes, flavour, and genetic profiles. The group's president, Poonwarit Wangpatravanich anticipates that after the elections legislation governing cannabis usage would be rushed through. Also Read | Verified Twitter account without Blue checkmark? Musk's platform steps up to avoid shame, trolling "Imagine what's going to happen if people fly right to Thailand just because of that (cannabis use). We're going to increase such a large amount of GDP in tourism for the whole (of) Thailand," he said, reported Reuters. "The government should be very, very happy!". Watch | Twitter CEO Elon Musk to give stocks to employees at $20 dollar valuation × Meanwhile, Thailand's opposition has been saying that the recreational use of cannabis posed a threat to society and young people. Cannabis is generally used for medicinal and recreational purposes. However, it can also cause negative side effects once individuals become addicted to its use. The plant remains illegal under federal law in many countries, although it has been legalized for medicinal or recreational use in some regions. Thailand became the first Asian nation to legalize medicinal cannabis in 2022. The Thai government legalised it in June 2022, removing it from a list of medicines that were prohibited from use or sale. It further allowed its use for both medical and culinary purposes. Under the current regulations, patients with certain medical conditions can legally access cannabis for treatment. However, its public use can still result in penalties. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

A joint rolling competition in Phuket as cannabis remains nation's top election issue

Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha on Friday ordered dissolution of the parliament ahead of the all-important general election as the military leader seeks to extend his second term spanning eight years.

Thai PM Prayuth Chan-ocha orders dissolution of parliament, paving way for high-stakes elections

A Thai man was sentenced to two years in prison for selling satirical calendars with rubber ducks dressed in royal regalia. The big inflatable ducks became a symbol of the pro-democracy protests in Thailand in 2020 protests as people used the yellow bath toys to protect themselves from police tear gas and water cannon.&nbsp; 
 
Narathorn Chotmankongsin was detained in December 2020 for selling the calendars on the pro-democracy Facebook group Ratasadon. After a six-day trial which ended on Tuesday,&nbsp;the 26-year-old Chotmankongsin was found guilty of insulting the Thai monarch.&nbsp;Thailand has some of the harshest laws in the world prohibiting disrespect for the king.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-since-taking-charge-australia-pm-albanese-arrives-in-india-569957">In a first since taking charge, Australia PM Albanese arrives in India</a>

In its argument, the prosecution claimed that the calendars were insulting to the monarchy.&nbsp;Thailand's lese-majeste law bans any insult to the monarchy.&nbsp;Almost 200 individuals have been detained under lese majeste laws since 2020. The political opposition in Thailand claims the laws to be an assault on free expression.

The political satire included contentious text and drawings of ducks dressed in royal garb.

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At protests calling for a democratic transition, which often includes calls for monarchy changes, activists frequently utilised the emblem. The photos and descriptions, according to the prosecution, mocked and defamed King Maha Vajiralongkorn.

Narathorn was given a three-year sentence on Tuesday by the court, which was later commuted to two years without parole.&nbsp;Human Rights Watch (HRW) claimed the sentencing indicated Thai authorities were penalising any conduct they believed disrespected the king.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-chief-warns-gender-equality-will-take-300-years-to-achieve-569947">UN Chief warns gender equality will take 300 years to achieve</a>

“This case sends a message to all Thais, and to the rest of the world, that Thailand is moving further away from, not closer to becoming a rights-respecting democracy,” said HRW Asia director Elaine Pearson.

Rights groups have accused the Thai government of exploiting the royal insult law in recent years to clamp down on political dissent.

Thailand is regularly condemned for the harshness of the punishments it imposes and the extremely broad interpretations of the lese majeste legislation that it permits.

However, Prime Minister of Thailand, Prayuth Chan-ocha has refuted the condemnation. The monarchy's continued existence is regarded as being crucial to Thailand's national identity, according to the government, which continues to maintain that legislation is necessary to safeguard it. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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A Thai man was sentenced to two years in prison for selling satirical calendars with rubber ducks dressed in royal regalia. The big inflatable ducks became a symbol of the pro-democracy protests in Thailand in 2020 protests as people used the yellow bath toys to protect themselves from police tear gas and water cannon.

A Thai man was sentenced to two years in prison for selling satirical calendars with rubber ducks dressed in royal regalia. The big inflatable ducks became a symbol of the pro-democracy protests in Thailand in 2020 protests as people used the yellow bath toys to protect themselves from police tear gas and water cannon. Narathorn Chotmankongsin was detained in December 2020 for selling the calendars on the pro-democracy Facebook group Ratasadon. After a six-day trial which ended on Tuesday, the 26-year-old Chotmankongsin was found guilty of insulting the Thai monarch. Thailand has some of the harshest laws in the world prohibiting disrespect for the king. Also Read | In a first since taking charge, Australia PM Albanese arrives in India In its argument, the prosecution claimed that the calendars were insulting to the monarchy. Thailand's lese-majeste law bans any insult to the monarchy. Almost 200 individuals have been detained under lese majeste laws since 2020. The political opposition in Thailand claims the laws to be an assault on free expression. The political satire included contentious text and drawings of ducks dressed in royal garb. Also Read | Pakistan Aurat March baton charged as demonstrations mark women's day across world At protests calling for a democratic transition, which often includes calls for monarchy changes, activists frequently utilised the emblem. The photos and descriptions, according to the prosecution, mocked and defamed King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Narathorn was given a three-year sentence on Tuesday by the court, which was later commuted to two years without parole. Human Rights Watch (HRW) claimed the sentencing indicated Thai authorities were penalising any conduct they believed disrespected the king. Watch | UN Chief warns gender equality will take 300 years to achieve “This case sends a message to all Thais, and to the rest of the world, that Thailand is moving further away from, not closer to becoming a rights-respecting democracy,” said HRW Asia director Elaine Pearson. Rights groups have accused the Thai government of exploiting the royal insult law in recent years to clamp down on political dissent. Thailand is regularly condemned for the harshness of the punishments it imposes and the extremely broad interpretations of the lese majeste legislation that it permits. However, Prime Minister of Thailand, Prayuth Chan-ocha has refuted the condemnation. The monarchy's continued existence is regarded as being crucial to Thailand's national identity, according to the government, which continues to maintain that legislation is necessary to safeguard it. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thai man jailed for selling satirical calendar with duck in royal regalia, a symbol of pro-democracy protests

After an 18-hour rescue operation, a 19-month-old girl in Thailand was successfully rescued after she fell down into a deep well. Doctors said she is recovering, despite showing signs of fatigue.&nbsp;The incident took place on Monday afternoon in Tak province, near the Myanmar border.&nbsp;The parents of the child were working in a nearby field when they heard the screams of their daughter who had fallen down the 13m (42ft) deep shaft while playing.

The girl is said to have fallen through a 30cm (12in) wide gap at the top of the well.

The parents—who are from Myanmar—raised the alarm after they heard cries coming from the nearby well.

"She has signs of fatigue but still has good vital signs," local police chief Ratsaran Ketsoising told AFP.

Following the incident, rescue teams were dispatched to the site and worked overnight using a mechanical digger.

They dug a 10m deep pit adjacent to the shaft, afterwards, oxygen was pumped into the well to allow the child to breathe.

However, their rescue operation was impeded temporarily over fears that the well could collapse in on itself and harm the child if they continued to use the digger. Then, they used hand-held shovels to remove the final few metres of earth.

According to PBS Thailand, rescue workers reached site around 8 pm local time (01:00 GMT), but were unable to pull her out immediately, as she appeared to have suffered an injury to her leg.

After the successful rescue operation, people began cheering for the girl.

"We are so glad we could rescue her safely," rescue worker Chanachart Wancharernrung told reporters.

"We have been trying since yesterday afternoon. We worked without sleep. Everyone helped out."

(With inputs from agencies)

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After an 18-hour rescue operation, a 19-month-old girl in Thailand was successfully rescued after she fell down into a deep well. Doctors said she is recovering, despite showing signs of fatigue.

After an 18-hour rescue operation, a 19-month-old girl in Thailand was successfully rescued after she fell down into a deep well. Doctors said she is recovering, despite showing signs of fatigue. The incident took place on Monday afternoon in Tak province, near the Myanmar border. The parents of the child were working in a nearby field when they heard the screams of their daughter who had fallen down the 13m (42ft) deep shaft while playing. The girl is said to have fallen through a 30cm (12in) wide gap at the top of the well. The parents—who are from Myanmar—raised the alarm after they heard cries coming from the nearby well. "She has signs of fatigue but still has good vital signs," local police chief Ratsaran Ketsoising told AFP. Following the incident, rescue teams were dispatched to the site and worked overnight using a mechanical digger. They dug a 10m deep pit adjacent to the shaft, afterwards, oxygen was pumped into the well to allow the child to breathe. However, their rescue operation was impeded temporarily over fears that the well could collapse in on itself and harm the child if they continued to use the digger. Then, they used hand-held shovels to remove the final few metres of earth. According to PBS Thailand, rescue workers reached site around 8 pm local time (01:00 GMT), but were unable to pull her out immediately, as she appeared to have suffered an injury to her leg. After the successful rescue operation, people began cheering for the girl. "We are so glad we could rescue her safely," rescue worker Chanachart Wancharernrung told reporters. "We have been trying since yesterday afternoon. We worked without sleep. Everyone helped out." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Thai baby who fell into 13m deep well rescued after dramatic 18-hour operation

Taiwan is welcoming back visitors after ending its mandatory Covid-19 quarantine rules. Dozens of excited tourists from Thailand were the very first to return to Taiwan. They were welcomed by officials with teddy bears as they stepped off the plane.

Taiwan: Thai tourists first to return after the country ends Covid quarantine

A court has asked Thailand's PM Prayuth Chan-o-cha to suspend active duties. The PM is accused of over-staying his term limit. Chan-o-cha came to power through a military coup in 2014. Thai constitution does not allow a PM to serve for more than 8 years. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Thai court suspends Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha

Thailand's prime minister on Friday ordered an investigation into a massive blaze that tore through a nightclub, killing at least 14 people.

Thai nightclub fire kills at least 14, PM orders an investigation

Over a thousand&nbsp;sacked&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;garment&nbsp;workers&nbsp;who made bras for a factory supplying lingerie giant&nbsp;Victoria's&nbsp;Secret&nbsp;have received a landmark $8.3 million&nbsp;settlement, labour rights activists said Saturday.

Brilliant Alliance&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;closed down its Samut Prakan factory in March 2021 after going bankrupt.

But the 1250 laid-off&nbsp;workers&nbsp;-- many of whom had worked at the factory for over a decade -- did not receive severance payouts mandated under&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;law.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-thailand-to-lift-curbs-on-nightlife-from-june-this-year-480729">COVID-19: Thailand to lift curbs on nightlife from June this year</a>

The factory also produced underwear for plus size American brands Lane Bryant and Torrid, owned by Sycamore Partners -- but only&nbsp;Victoria's&nbsp;Secret&nbsp;contributed to the&nbsp;settlement&nbsp;via a loan arrangement with the factory's owners.

Victoria's&nbsp;Secret&nbsp;confirmed in a statement that an agreement had been reached, but it did not mention the amount involved.

"Over several months we had been in active communication with the factory owners to facilitate a resolution," the company said.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ground Report: Overtime is killing workers in Japan

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"We regret they were not ultimately in a position to conclude this matter on their own so to ensure the&nbsp;workers&nbsp;received their full severance amounts owed,&nbsp;Victoria's&nbsp;Secret&nbsp;agreed to advance the severance funds to the factory owners," it added.

Sycamore Partners did not respond to a request for comment from AFP.&nbsp;

The agreement is the largest-ever wage theft&nbsp;settlement&nbsp;at an individual garment factory, the international&nbsp;workers&nbsp;rights group Solidarity Centre said.

"I think it's extremely unprecedented and represents a new model -- the scale of severance and interest paid on it... as well as direct engagement by the brand," Solidarity Center Thailand country director David Welsh told AFP.

"It eliminates the fiction that multinational brands are passive investors," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-thailand-citizens-fume-against-massage-karaoke-bar-spa-room-in-parliament-482605">Thailand: Citizens fume against massage, karaoke bar, spa room in Parliament</a>

"We want more brands to do the same because sadly this will not be the last of its kind -- there will be many, many more cases."

For the past year,&nbsp;sacked&nbsp;workers&nbsp;and&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;union representatives have protested outside Government House in Bangkok calling for their pay.

Prasit Prasopsuk, president of the Confederation of Industrial Labour of Thailand said some protesting&nbsp;workers&nbsp;had been charged with criminal offences, including violating public gathering rules during the pandemic.

A Worker Rights Consortium report from April last year said it had documented similar wage theft cases at 31 garment factories in nine countries.

Worker Rights Consortium executive director Scott Nova said those cases were just the "tip of the iceberg" and that the issue of wage theft in the garment industry had exploded during the pandemic as clothing orders declined.

He estimated garment&nbsp;workers&nbsp;worldwide were owed $500 million as a result of factory closures and unpaid severance.

Some&nbsp;workers&nbsp;at the Samut Prakan factory had received the equivalent of more than four years' wages last week, he said.

"It's like the equivalent of a worker's life savings... and it's simply stolen. What it means to lose that and get it back is difficult to capture in words," Nova said.

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Over a thousand sacked Thai garment workers who made bras for a factory supplying lingerie giant Victoria's Secret have received a landmark $8.3 million settlement, labour rights activists said Saturday.

Over a thousand sacked Thai garment workers who made bras for a factory supplying lingerie giant Victoria's Secret have received a landmark $8.3 million settlement, labour rights activists said Saturday. Brilliant Alliance Thai closed down its Samut Prakan factory in March 2021 after going bankrupt. But the 1250 laid-off workers -- many of whom had worked at the factory for over a decade -- did not receive severance payouts mandated under Thai law. Also read | COVID-19: Thailand to lift curbs on nightlife from June this year The factory also produced underwear for plus size American brands Lane Bryant and Torrid, owned by Sycamore Partners -- but only Victoria's Secret contributed to the settlement via a loan arrangement with the factory's owners. Victoria's Secret confirmed in a statement that an agreement had been reached, but it did not mention the amount involved. "Over several months we had been in active communication with the factory owners to facilitate a resolution," the company said. Watch | Gravitas: Ground Report: Overtime is killing workers in Japan "We regret they were not ultimately in a position to conclude this matter on their own so to ensure the workers received their full severance amounts owed, Victoria's Secret agreed to advance the severance funds to the factory owners," it added. Sycamore Partners did not respond to a request for comment from AFP. The agreement is the largest-ever wage theft settlement at an individual garment factory, the international workers rights group Solidarity Centre said. "I think it's extremely unprecedented and represents a new model -- the scale of severance and interest paid on it... as well as direct engagement by the brand," Solidarity Center Thailand country director David Welsh told AFP. "It eliminates the fiction that multinational brands are passive investors," he said. Also read | Thailand: Citizens fume against massage, karaoke bar, spa room in Parliament "We want more brands to do the same because sadly this will not be the last of its kind -- there will be many, many more cases." For the past year, sacked workers and Thai union representatives have protested outside Government House in Bangkok calling for their pay. Prasit Prasopsuk, president of the Confederation of Industrial Labour of Thailand said some protesting workers had been charged with criminal offences, including violating public gathering rules during the pandemic. A Worker Rights Consortium report from April last year said it had documented similar wage theft cases at 31 garment factories in nine countries. Worker Rights Consortium executive director Scott Nova said those cases were just the "tip of the iceberg" and that the issue of wage theft in the garment industry had exploded during the pandemic as clothing orders declined. He estimated garment workers worldwide were owed $500 million as a result of factory closures and unpaid severance. Some workers at the Samut Prakan factory had received the equivalent of more than four years' wages last week, he said. "It's like the equivalent of a worker's life savings... and it's simply stolen. What it means to lose that and get it back is difficult to capture in words," Nova said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Victoria's Secret pays $8.3m settlement to sacked Thai workers

A cafe in Thailand is reaping dividends after it transformed its interior from photogenic sakura trees to cryptocurrency data screens.

Cryptocurrency: Thai cafe offers coffee with a side of crypto investment

A&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;man&nbsp;was&nbsp;arrested&nbsp;in connection with the&nbsp;suspected&nbsp;murder&nbsp;of a&nbsp;Swiss&nbsp;woman&nbsp;whose body was found near a waterfall in Thailand's famed tourist island of&nbsp;Phuket, police said Sunday.

The body of Nicole Sauvain-Weisskopf, 57, was found on Thursday lying face-down, with her phone, shorts and trainers nearby.

She had travelled to&nbsp;Phuket&nbsp;under a so-called "sandbox" scheme, a pilot project allowing vaccinated tourists to enter the island without undergoing the usual two-week mandatory hotel quarantine.

Deputy National Police spokesman Kissana Phathanacharoen said officers had&nbsp;arrested&nbsp;27-year-old Theerawut Tortip in connection with the&nbsp;murder.

In a press conference, which Theerawut attended via a phone-in and accompanied by his lawyer, the&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;national said he had taken roughly 300 baht ($9) after strangling Sauvain-Weisskopf.

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"I would like to apologise to the family of the tourist and plead for all Thais to forgive me," he added.

Police Major General Nantadej Yoinual, who oversees the southern region, said Theerawut confessed following an interrogation.

He added that they had detained the&nbsp;man&nbsp;after reviewing nearby CCTV footage, and narrowing their search to the owner of a motorbike seen around the same time as Sauvin-Weisskopf travelled to the waterfall.

A counsel with the&nbsp;Swiss&nbsp;embassy thanked the&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;police for their efforts.&nbsp;

"The victim, the family of victim, and all the people of Thailand deserve a swift investigation of this crime," he said.

The case casts a pall over&nbsp;Phuket's "sandbox" scheme, touted as a much-anticipated reopening for Thailand's Covid-devastated tourism sector after more than a year of draconian travel curbs.

More than 16,000 people have arrived in&nbsp;Phuket&nbsp;since the July 1 launch of the scheme.

A Thai man was arrested in connection with the suspected murder of a Swiss woman whose body was found near a waterfall in Thailand's famed tourist island of Phuket, police said Sunday.

A Thai man was arrested in connection with the suspected murder of a Swiss woman whose body was found near a waterfall in Thailand's famed tourist island of Phuket, police said Sunday. The body of Nicole Sauvain-Weisskopf, 57, was found on Thursday lying face-down, with her phone, shorts and trainers nearby. She had travelled to Phuket under a so-called "sandbox" scheme, a pilot project allowing vaccinated tourists to enter the island without undergoing the usual two-week mandatory hotel quarantine. Deputy National Police spokesman Kissana Phathanacharoen said officers had arrested 27-year-old Theerawut Tortip in connection with the murder. In a press conference, which Theerawut attended via a phone-in and accompanied by his lawyer, the Thai national said he had taken roughly 300 baht ($9) after strangling Sauvain-Weisskopf. Also read | Egypt's ancient King Khufu's boat moved from Giza pyramids to a new home "I would like to apologise to the family of the tourist and plead for all Thais to forgive me," he added. Police Major General Nantadej Yoinual, who oversees the southern region, said Theerawut confessed following an interrogation. He added that they had detained the man after reviewing nearby CCTV footage, and narrowing their search to the owner of a motorbike seen around the same time as Sauvin-Weisskopf travelled to the waterfall. A counsel with the Swiss embassy thanked the Thai police for their efforts. "The victim, the family of victim, and all the people of Thailand deserve a swift investigation of this crime," he said. The case casts a pall over Phuket's "sandbox" scheme, touted as a much-anticipated reopening for Thailand's Covid-devastated tourism sector after more than a year of draconian travel curbs. More than 16,000 people have arrived in Phuket since the July 1 launch of the scheme.

Thai man arrested for suspected murder of Swiss woman in Phuket

Thai health ministry on Thursday said that it had proposed new travel curbs alongwith tighter restrictions in high-risk areas in order to contain COVID-19 cases. The country reported a daily record of 75 deaths from coronavirus.

Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha is due to consider the new restrictions in a meeting on Friday.

"We may need to impose tougher restriction to limit travel, stop group activities, close more facilities and take other measures that are necessary," Prayuth said, adding a decision would be announced after the COVID-19 task force meeting.

Health ministry has proposed measures to limit people's travel from their home and curb on inter-provincial travel. The ministry has also proposed closing non-essential venues and areas that attract crowds.

The rules would be in place for 14 days and would cover the Bangkok metropolitan area and "buffer zones", Kiatiphum said, without elaborating.

"This has similar intensity as April 2020," he said referring to lockdown measures last year that included a nationwide curfew.

Currently, Thailand has in place measures in "high-risk zones", including Bangkok and surrounding provinces, to close malls early and prohibit dining in at restaurants, but they have not been able to halt an acceleration of infections in the past month.

The health ministry has also been expanding hospital capacity in Bangkok including a plan to convert the newly built terminal at Suvarnabhumi International Airport into a field hospital with 5,000 beds by August.

Thailand's COVID-19 task force on Thursday reported 7,058 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number in the country to 308,230. The country has recorded 2,462 fatalities since the pandemic started last year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thai health ministry on Thursday said that it had proposed new travel curbs alongwith tighter restrictions in high-risk areas in order to contain COVID-19 cases.

Thai health ministry on Thursday said that it had proposed new travel curbs alongwith tighter restrictions in high-risk areas in order to contain COVID-19 cases. The country reported a daily record of 75 deaths from coronavirus. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha is due to consider the new restrictions in a meeting on Friday. "We may need to impose tougher restriction to limit travel, stop group activities, close more facilities and take other measures that are necessary," Prayuth said, adding a decision would be announced after the COVID-19 task force meeting. Health ministry has proposed measures to limit people's travel from their home and curb on inter-provincial travel. The ministry has also proposed closing non-essential venues and areas that attract crowds. The rules would be in place for 14 days and would cover the Bangkok metropolitan area and "buffer zones", Kiatiphum said, without elaborating. "This has similar intensity as April 2020," he said referring to lockdown measures last year that included a nationwide curfew. Currently, Thailand has in place measures in "high-risk zones", including Bangkok and surrounding provinces, to close malls early and prohibit dining in at restaurants, but they have not been able to halt an acceleration of infections in the past month. The health ministry has also been expanding hospital capacity in Bangkok including a plan to convert the newly built terminal at Suvarnabhumi International Airport into a field hospital with 5,000 beds by August. Thailand's COVID-19 task force on Thursday reported 7,058 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number in the country to 308,230. The country has recorded 2,462 fatalities since the pandemic started last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Thailand mulls tighter restrictions as Covid deaths climb

Thai police on Monday vowed to arrest more people participating in anti-government protests after detaining nearly 100 at a demonstration a day earlier, citing a law restricting gatherings to prevent the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp;

Another protest demanding the release of jailed activists is planned for late Monday afternoon, raising prospects for another confrontation, with activists calling for an end to military dominance of politics and reform of the powerful monarchy.&nbsp;

"We have prepared troops to maintain order," Piya Tavichai, deputy head of the Bangkok police, told reporters.&nbsp;

Piya said 99 people were arrested on Sunday in front of Government House, saying the arrests were necessary under a law forbidding large public gatherings to prevent coronavirus spread.&nbsp;

The mostly student-led movement has taken aim at the military for entrenching its role in civilian politics, especially since Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha seized power in a 2014 coup when he was army chief.&nbsp;

The activists say elections held in 2019 were under rules designed to cement Prayuth's hold on power. Prayuth and his coalition government allies say the vote was free and fair.&nbsp;

Prayuth on Monday told reporters the weekend arrests were justified.&nbsp;

"You have to look at the law. If I don't take action, there will be disruption in traffic. We are just taking back space. There have been many warnings," said Prayuth.&nbsp;

Dozens of people have been detained at protests in recent months under disease control and public order laws, but Sunday's protest represented one of the largest number of arrests at a single rally.&nbsp;

Additionally, at least nine leaders of the movement are jailed pending trial under a law against insulting the Thai monarchy, which carries a maximum 15-year penalty.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Thai police on Monday vowed to arrest more people participating in anti-government protests after detaining nearly 100 at a demonstration a day earlier, citing a law restricting gatherings to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Thai police on Monday vowed to arrest more people participating in anti-government protests after detaining nearly 100 at a demonstration a day earlier, citing a law restricting gatherings to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Another protest demanding the release of jailed activists is planned for late Monday afternoon, raising prospects for another confrontation, with activists calling for an end to military dominance of politics and reform of the powerful monarchy. "We have prepared troops to maintain order," Piya Tavichai, deputy head of the Bangkok police, told reporters. Piya said 99 people were arrested on Sunday in front of Government House, saying the arrests were necessary under a law forbidding large public gatherings to prevent coronavirus spread. The mostly student-led movement has taken aim at the military for entrenching its role in civilian politics, especially since Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha seized power in a 2014 coup when he was army chief. The activists say elections held in 2019 were under rules designed to cement Prayuth's hold on power. Prayuth and his coalition government allies say the vote was free and fair. Prayuth on Monday told reporters the weekend arrests were justified. "You have to look at the law. If I don't take action, there will be disruption in traffic. We are just taking back space. There have been many warnings," said Prayuth. Dozens of people have been detained at protests in recent months under disease control and public order laws, but Sunday's protest represented one of the largest number of arrests at a single rally. Additionally, at least nine leaders of the movement are jailed pending trial under a law against insulting the Thai monarchy, which carries a maximum 15-year penalty. (With inputs from agencies)

After detaining nearly 100, Thai police vow more protest arrests  

Pro-democracy protesters in Thailand clashed with police outside Bangkok's Grand Palace on Saturday. Thai police used water cannons and rubber bullets after demonstrators broke through a barricade of shipping containers to demand reforms to the kingdom's unassailable monarchy.&nbsp;

It was the latest night of unrest since Thailand's pro-democracy movement kicked off in July, calling for an overhaul of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha's administration and a rewrite of a military-scripted constitution.

But reforms to monarchy has been the most controversial demand. The protesters are also demanding the abolition of draconian royal defamation laws

A wall of cargo containers, two containers tall, had been erected in Sanam Luang, a historic field in front of the palace, to keep protesters away but, just an hour into the rally, they used ropes to yank some of the top-row boxes down, allowing a small opening.

"You're breaking the law!" said the police over an announcer as protesters used ropes to pull the lower containers out of place.

Once protesters were able to get through, they threw Molotov cocktails at dozens of police who stood by with water cannon trucks about 100 metres (300 feet) away, using the jets to prevent protesters from coming closer.

"Release our friends!" protesters shouted, referring to prominent leaders who have been detained since earlier this year.

Police chased demonstrators away from the area, firing rubber bullets continuously directly at them, according to AFP reporters on the ground.

Most protesters had dispersed by 8:30 pm (1330 GMT) but hard-core activists lingered on.

(With AFP inputs)

Pro-democracy protesters in Thailand clashed with police outside Bangkok's Grand Palace on Saturday. Thai police used water cannons and rubber bullets after demonstrators broke through a barricade of shipping containers to demand reforms to the kingdom's unassailable monarchy.

Pro-democracy protesters in Thailand clashed with police outside Bangkok's Grand Palace on Saturday. Thai police used water cannons and rubber bullets after demonstrators broke through a barricade of shipping containers to demand reforms to the kingdom's unassailable monarchy. It was the latest night of unrest since Thailand's pro-democracy movement kicked off in July, calling for an overhaul of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha's administration and a rewrite of a military-scripted constitution. But reforms to monarchy has been the most controversial demand. The protesters are also demanding the abolition of draconian royal defamation laws A wall of cargo containers, two containers tall, had been erected in Sanam Luang, a historic field in front of the palace, to keep protesters away but, just an hour into the rally, they used ropes to yank some of the top-row boxes down, allowing a small opening. "You're breaking the law!" said the police over an announcer as protesters used ropes to pull the lower containers out of place. Once protesters were able to get through, they threw Molotov cocktails at dozens of police who stood by with water cannon trucks about 100 metres (300 feet) away, using the jets to prevent protesters from coming closer. "Release our friends!" protesters shouted, referring to prominent leaders who have been detained since earlier this year. Police chased demonstrators away from the area, firing rubber bullets continuously directly at them, according to AFP reporters on the ground. Most protesters had dispersed by 8:30 pm (1330 GMT) but hard-core activists lingered on. (With AFP inputs)

Thai protesters clash with police at Grand Palace

A mass trial began in Thailand on Monday for activists accused of sedition and insulting the powerful monarchy at a major protest last year, one of a series of mass demonstrations against the country's military-backed establishment. &nbsp;

The 22 demonstrators deny charges of committing sedition and a litany of other offences, which includes lese majeste in section 112 of the Thai criminal code, a crime punishable by up to 15 years in prison for each count. &nbsp;

"They can lock me up but they cannot lock up the truth," protest leader Parit 'Penguin' Chiwarak shouted as he arrived in a prison truck, defiantly flashing the three-finger 'Hunger Games' salute synonymous with the youth movement. &nbsp;

"The truth is always the truth whether in prison, under torture or awaiting execution, the truth is the truth," said Parit, 22, who is among seven defendants held in pre-trial detention accused of sedition and insulting King Maha Vajiralongkorn during two protests in September. &nbsp;

Parit later announced he would go on hunger strike until he and his friends were granted bail. &nbsp;

How long the trial will last is not known and the judge adjourned proceedings until March 29, defence lawyer Krisadang Nutcharat said. &nbsp;

The court could not be reached for comment but during earlier indictment processes it has denied multiple bail requests for the seven on the grounds that could re-offend by holding more protests. &nbsp;

Thailand's youth movement has posed the biggest challenge so far to prime minister and former coup leader Prayuth Chan-ocha, who they say engineered a process that would preserve the political status quo and keep him in power after a 2019 election. Prayuth has rejected that. &nbsp;

Protesters also broke a traditional taboo by demanding reform of the monarchy, saying the constitution drafted by the military after the 2014 coup gives the king too much power. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A mass trial began in Thailand on Monday for activists accused of sedition and insulting the powerful monarchy at a major protest last year, one of a series of mass demonstrations against the country's military-backed establishment.

A mass trial began in Thailand on Monday for activists accused of sedition and insulting the powerful monarchy at a major protest last year, one of a series of mass demonstrations against the country's military-backed establishment. The 22 demonstrators deny charges of committing sedition and a litany of other offences, which includes lese majeste in section 112 of the Thai criminal code, a crime punishable by up to 15 years in prison for each count. "They can lock me up but they cannot lock up the truth," protest leader Parit 'Penguin' Chiwarak shouted as he arrived in a prison truck, defiantly flashing the three-finger 'Hunger Games' salute synonymous with the youth movement. "The truth is always the truth whether in prison, under torture or awaiting execution, the truth is the truth," said Parit, 22, who is among seven defendants held in pre-trial detention accused of sedition and insulting King Maha Vajiralongkorn during two protests in September. Parit later announced he would go on hunger strike until he and his friends were granted bail. How long the trial will last is not known and the judge adjourned proceedings until March 29, defence lawyer Krisadang Nutcharat said. The court could not be reached for comment but during earlier indictment processes it has denied multiple bail requests for the seven on the grounds that could re-offend by holding more protests. Thailand's youth movement has posed the biggest challenge so far to prime minister and former coup leader Prayuth Chan-ocha, who they say engineered a process that would preserve the political status quo and keep him in power after a 2019 election. Prayuth has rejected that. Protesters also broke a traditional taboo by demanding reform of the monarchy, saying the constitution drafted by the military after the 2014 coup gives the king too much power. (With inputs from agencies)

Thai protest leaders go on trial for sedition, royal insults  

Thailand's economy has passed its lowest point and is expected to contract less than previously expected this year due to a recovery in consumption, senior officials said.

Thailand's economy to contract less than expected

Thai online retailer Kanittha has captured a market of thousands by dressing up as a zombie to sell the clothes of dead people in sales streamed live on social media.

Thai zombie clothes seller cashes in on threads of the dead

Thailand Army has suspended its plans of joint training with the American military after nine Thai soldiers tested positive for the novel coronavirus upon their arrival from Hawaii, as per defence ministry's statement on Sunday.

Thailand Army has suspended its plans of joint training with the American military after nine Thai soldiers tested positive for the novel coronavirus upon their arrival from Hawaii, as per defence ministry's statement on Sunday. Also read: COVID-19: Global cases cross 18 million mark; death toll now at 687,930 According to the Thai Army, the infected men were a part of 151 Thai officers who returned from Lightning Forge 2020 training with US soldiers in Hawaii for the first three weeks of July. "The army has suspended all plans to bring forces abroad until the situation improves," said defence ministry spokesman Kongcheep Tantawanich. Thailand had no plans for joint training with other countries but the United States, he said. The head of the Thai Army's anti-COVID-19 unit, Nattapon Srisawat, told that the army will have to exercise with caution. "It will be difficult to travel at the moment as we have to be careful," he said. Thailand has been battling COVID-19 pandemic and has witnessed 3,317 cases along with 58 deaths. Recent infections were imported from abroad, marking 69 successive days without any domestic transmission. (Inputs from Reuters)

Thai Army suspends training exercise with US after soldiers test positive for COVID-19

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