Thai Authorities Deport French Zoo Manager for Banning Israelis

Thai authorities have issued an expulsion order against Kevin Dimino, the French manager of a zoo in Koh Samui, after he displayed a Palestinian flag and posted signs prohibiting Israelis from entering the premises. The order, signed by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, cites Dimino's alleged threatening and harassing behavior, physical assaults, and creation of "serious division on racial and religious grounds," including among tourists. The Ministry of Interior stated that Dimino's conduct violated public order, accepted morals, and public welfare, necessitating his expulsion from the kingdom under the 1956 Expulsion Act.

The expulsion order follows closely on the heels of a similar action against an Israeli citizen who had confronted Dimino and made threats. This Israeli national was convicted of making threats and engaging in behavior that "instilled fear and distress in another person."