Thailand Issues Stern Warning to Israel Over Tourist Behavior

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkaew, delivered a strong message to Israel's Ambassador to Thailand, Alona Fisher-Kam, in Bangkok, expressing concern over incidents involving Israeli nationals. The minister stated that while Thailand welcomes tourists, this does not grant them license to act as they please, emphasizing that certain behaviors have offended Thai sentiments, culture, and way of life, particularly in areas like Phuket and Phang Nga.

This message comes amid growing criticism of foreign tourist conduct and increased scrutiny of Israeli activities in Thailand. Ambassador Fisher-Kam acknowledged the issue of some Israelis' behavior and proposed creating a "do's and don'ts" guide for Israeli travelers, to be distributed through the embassy and travel companies. However, the Thai minister indicated that more intensive action from Israel was required.

Following the meeting, which was initially slated for a joint press conference, Ambassador Fisher-Kam departed without speaking to reporters. The Thai Foreign Minister conveyed his government's position on foreign tourist conduct and Israeli-related incidents. The meeting preceded a planned demonstration on September 10th outside the Israeli embassy in Bangkok, protesting what organizers call "grey foreign capital" and foreign businesses operating through Thai fronts, citing Israeli, Chinese, Russian, and other foreign nationals.

A prominent case fueling the tension involves Israeli businessman Yaakov Ohayon, who faces deportation from Thailand. Ohayon was convicted for sending threatening messages during a dispute with a French national operating a zoo in Koh Samui where a Palestinian flag was displayed and an Israeli family was denied entry. Despite a suspended sentence and fine, the Thai Prime Minister and Interior Minister signed a deportation order for Ohayon, who is currently in custody.

This case, along with other confrontations involving Israelis and local authorities, highlights Bangkok's expectation that foreign tourists, including Israelis, respect local laws, culture, and lifestyle. In a related development, the French zoo owner, Kevin Dimino, was arrested in Koh Samui following reports of his disappearance, while Ohayon remains in police custody awaiting deportation.