Foreign tourist arrivals in Thailand down in first two months of 2026
THURSDAY, MARCH 05, 2026
Thailand welcomed 6.54 million international visitors from January 1–February 28, 2026, with China remaining the biggest source market. While the two-month total slipped year on year, February arrivals rose 4.63%, supported by a Chinese New Year travel surge.
Oil markets rattled as China readies special envoy to mediate in Middle East
THURSDAY, MARCH 05, 2026
China said it will send its special envoy for Middle East affairs to the region to pursue mediation as the Iran war widens, unsettling Gulf stability and energy markets.
US Senate blocks bid to curb Trump’s Iran war powers in 53-47 vote
THURSDAY, MARCH 05, 2026
The US Senate voted 53-47 on March 4, 2026 to block a war powers resolution that would have required congressional approval for further hostilities against Iran, as the conflict intensifies and the House prepares a similar vote.
Embassy urges Thais in Lebanon to consider leaving now amid escalating conflict
THURSDAY, MARCH 05, 2026
The Royal Thai Embassy in Riyadh has warned Thai nationals in Lebanon to consider departing as soon as possible amid escalating conflict, highlighting high-risk areas in and around Beirut and issuing emergency contact details.
Thailand to secure new oil supplies within one week to cut Middle East reliance
THURSDAY, MARCH 05, 2026
Officials say Thailand has ample reserves and is working with energy and finance agencies to stabilise domestic fuel and power costs as the Middle East conflict pushes up global prices.
Thailand unveils plan to cushion oil and power bills, cap diesel prices
THURSDAY, MARCH 05, 2026
The Energy Ministry is preparing a three-tier response using the Oil Fuel Fund and potential tax cuts, while regulators weigh options to hold down electricity tariffs amid rising LNG and crude prices.
US submarine sinks Iranian warship off Sri Lanka coast
THURSDAY, MARCH 05, 2026
Three US officials say a US submarine sank an Iranian warship off Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka’s navy disputes reports of 101 missing as rescue efforts continue.