Thailand Sets Boundaries for Israeli Tourists Amid Rising Incidents

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, met with Israeli Ambassador to Thailand, Orna Sagiv, in Bangkok on Tuesday to address a series of incidents involving Israeli tourists and growing public concern over foreign visitor behavior. The Thai minister emphasized that while Thailand welcomes tourists from all nations, this openness does not permit unbounded conduct. He stated that recent events have offended Thai sentiments, local culture, and the national way of life, particularly in tourist hotspots like Phuket and Koh Samui. This comes amid increasing criticism in Thailand regarding the behavior of some foreign visitors, with a heightened focus on the conduct of Israelis in various parts of the country.

Ambassador Sagiv acknowledged the developing negative atmosphere towards Israelis and Jews in Thailand and proposed creating a "do's and don'ts" guide for Israeli tourists. This document, intended to be distributed before and during their trips via the embassy, tour operators, and airlines, aims to improve Israeli tourist conduct. However, the Thai Foreign Minister indicated that Bangkok expects more robust engagement from Israel in addressing the issue, beyond just informational outreach to tourists.

A joint press conference planned after the meeting did not materialize, with Ambassador Sagiv reportedly leaving immediately after the discussion. The Thai Foreign Minister conveyed his government's position on foreign tourist behavior and the specific incidents involving Israelis. The meeting occurred just two days before a planned protest outside the Israeli embassy in Bangkok, organized as part of a campaign targeting what organizers call "grey foreign capital," alleging that foreign businesses operate through Thai proxies. The campaign also scrutinizes the activities of Israelis, alongside other foreign nationals like Chinese and Russians.