Thailand Warns Israel Over Citizen Behavior Threatening Bilateral Ties

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeaw, issued an exceptional warning to Israeli Ambassador to Thailand, Orna Fisher-Kamm, on Thursday. He cautioned that continued "inappropriate behavior" by Israeli citizens could harm the bilateral relationship between the two countries. The warning comes in response to a series of incidents involving Israelis, including tourists, businessmen, and residents, coupled with negative media reports and anti-Israel demonstrations in Bangkok and Phuket.

Phuangketkeaw emphasized that Thai authorities will strictly enforce laws against any foreigner violating regulations or disrespecting local culture and traditions. He noted recent deportations of an Israeli and a French national, stressing that these strict measures apply to all nationalities and are not exclusively targeted at Israelis. The minister stated that such actions are necessary to protect the nation's sensitive culture and traditions.

Ambassador Fisher-Kamm explained that Israeli tourists visit Thailand for recreation and to escape conflict, assuring that the embassy is cooperating with Thai authorities on awareness campaigns encouraging tourists to respect local laws, customs, and communities. She also noted that some negative reports may contain misinformation or misattribute the behavior of tourists from other nationalities to Israelis.

These developments coincide with rising public criticism in Thailand towards Israelis, including calls to reduce the visa-free stay period for Israelis to just 15 days. A new demonstration is expected in front of the Israeli embassy in Bangkok.