As images emerged of exhausted Thai hostages being freed by Hamas after a weeks-long ordeal in Gaza, Panaphan Klongsuwan booked his return ticket to Israel, where an acute labour shortage following the outbreak of war has provided a dangerous incentive to get back to work.

“Most employers are doubling the pay for those who return,” the 37-year-old told This Week in Asia. “This is a fine opportunity I don’t want to miss.”

… Panaphan was a cowherd and agricultural worker in Israel…

… Panaphan is adamant his December 4 return to the Middle East will go ahead, as a rare window opens to beat the poverty trap…

… The house and car loans are in my father’s name so the debt belongs to my father. I earn a living on behalf of the whole family and I’ll work to pay off all the loans.”…

… An unknown number worked illegally – including at least four of the hostages, whose employers reportedly did not initially want to report them missing….

… many Thais fled after the Hamas assault on October 7, while Palestinians have largely been banned from the workforce, leaving farms desperately short-handed…

Before the conflict, migrant workers faced a plethora of issues including unpaid overtime and cramped accommodation…