In a powerful demonstration of solidarity and global humanitarian leadership, Israel is dispatching a 22-member expert search and rescue team to Thailand to assist in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake.
The mission, personally authorized by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reflects Israel’s unwavering commitment to aid allies in times of crisis.
The team, led by Colonel (res.) Yossi Pinto, includes some of Israel’s top specialists in disaster response, structural engineering, emergency medicine, and canine search operations. The operation is a joint initiative coordinated between the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Defense, and the National Rescue Unit, known globally for its efficiency, professionalism, and battlefield-tested expertise.
The delegation is set to depart tonight at 10:30 p.m. aboard a special El Al flight, carrying advanced rescue equipment, medical supplies, and life-saving technology designed for urban search and rescue in collapsed structures.
Thailand, a nation with strong bilateral ties to Israel, has welcomed the assistance amid growing challenges in rescue efforts following the powerful earthquake that struck earlier this week. Israeli officials stated that the team’s mission is to support Thai emergency services, locate survivors trapped beneath the rubble, and provide critical medical aid in affected regions.
Despite this goodwill, Thailand has repeatedly voted against Israel in the international arena—often aligning with anti-Israel resolutions at the United Nations. On May 10, 2024, Thailand voted in favor of the UN General Assembly resolution recognizing “Palestine” as qualified for full UN membership—an affront to the victims of Hamas’ atrocities and a diplomatic blow to Israel. Furthermore, on December 19, 2024, Thailand supported resolutions calling for an advisory opinion against Israel at the International Court of Justice, and endorsed the false claim of “permanent sovereignty” of so-called Palestinians over natural resources. Just days later, on December 24, Thailand voted in favor of budgetary support for UNRWA—an organization now proven to have harbored terrorists and directly participated in the October 7 massacre.
And yet, in the face of such hypocrisy, Israel stands tall.
This is not the first time Israel has extended its helping hand to the world. From Haiti and Nepal to Turkey and Mexico, the IDF’s National Rescue Unit has become a beacon of hope in disaster zones worldwide—proving that even while under attack on multiple fronts, Israel leads in compassion and moral clarity.
The contrast is stark. While some nations condemn Israel for defending itself against terror, Israel continues to save lives—regardless of how those same nations vote at the UN. Because Israel is a good and wonderful country—a nation rooted in values of life, responsibility, and global solidarity.
As Thailand faces the aftermath of this natural disaster, Israel’s message is unwavering: the Jewish state does not turn its back on those in need. Whether on the battlefield or amid the rubble of tragedy, Israel brings strength, humanity, and the will to protect life.
