Thailand Warns Israelis: 'You Can't Do Whatever You Want Here'

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, issued a stern warning to Israeli tourists during a meeting with Israel's Ambassador to Thailand, Alona Fisher-Kamm, on Tuesday. The diplomatic tension stems from a series of incidents involving Israeli nationals that Thai authorities claim have disrespected local culture and lifestyle. Phuangketkeow emphasized that while Thailand welcomes tourism, "foreigners cannot do whatever they please." A planned joint press conference following the meeting was canceled, and the ambassador departed quickly without making a statement.

Hours after the tense meeting, a significant development occurred in a related case. Kevin Dimino, a French national operating a zoo cafe on Koh Samui, was arrested by local police. Dimino had previously refused entry to an Israeli family and displayed a Palestinian flag. He is now suspected of assaulting an Israeli tourist who complained about the animal conditions at his establishment and faces deportation.

This incident is linked to Israeli businessman Yaakov Ohayon, a resident of Koh Samui, who was previously convicted of sending threatening messages to Dimino. Ohayon received a suspended sentence and a fine and is currently in custody pending his own deportation, ordered by the Thai Interior Minister.

The current crisis escalates as Bangkok prepares for protests outside the Israeli embassy on September 10, part of a local campaign. Despite an Israeli embassy proposal to create a "do's and don'ts" guide for Israeli tourists, the Thai government insists on more substantial measures to prevent further incidents.

Adding to the strain, Thailand recently enacted a visa reform reducing the visa-exempt stay for tourists from 60 countries, including Israel, from 60 to 30 days. These new regulations take effect on September 15, though those arriving by September 14 can still benefit from the extended 60-day stay.