French Zoo Director Expelled From Thailand Over Anti-Israel Policies

Thai authorities have ordered the expulsion of Kevin Dimino, the French director of a wildlife park on the island of Koh Samui, following a series of incidents including the display of signs barring Israeli visitors and the flying of a Palestinian flag. The expulsion order cites Dimino's alleged aggressive behavior, physical assaults, and disruption of public order, stating he "created serious divisions of a racial and religious nature," including among tourists. The Thai Ministry of Interior deemed his conduct detrimental to public order, morality, and general welfare, justifying the expulsion under existing Thai law.

The controversy began on August 12 at the Samui Exotic Park when an Israeli couple and their children were denied entry after park officials overheard them speaking Hebrew. Reports indicate that Dimino and the park's owner, Jindarat Stiaphon, had displayed a Palestinian flag and a sign prohibiting Israelis. Images later surfaced showing an Israeli flag placed near a shooting target.

An Israeli resident of Koh Samui, Yaakov Ohayon, confronted the park owner, leading to an altercation. Thai authorities reported that Ohayon subsequently posted threats on Facebook, resulting in his arrest and conviction for causing fear and panic. He received a 15-day suspended prison sentence and a fine of 5,000 baht (approximately $125 USD).

Ohayon's case marked the first time a foreigner was targeted under new Thai expulsion regulations implemented in late August. He had seven days to appeal the expulsion. The dual sanctions against both Dimino and Ohayon come as Bangkok seeks to tighten measures against foreigners involved in incidents that could disrupt public order or harm Koh Samui's tourism image.