Thai Government Revokes Citizenship of Israeli Businessman
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS French by baba
Thailand has revoked the citizenship of Israeli businessman Ariel Blushstein, citing his continued use of his Israeli passport after naturalization and failure to declare Uruguayan nationality. The decision comes amid rising tensions surrounding the Israeli community in the country.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Thai citizenship revoked for Israeli businessman Ariel Blushstein.
- Reason cited is continued use of Israeli passport post-naturalization.
- Businessman also failed to declare Uruguayan nationality.
- Decision based on 1965 Thai Nationality Act.
- Revocation occurs amid rising tensions over Israeli presence in Thailand.
Thailand's Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, has signed a decree revoking the Thai citizenship of Israeli businessman Ariel Blushstein. Blushstein, who was active in Bangkok's diamond and jewelry sectors, was naturalized six years ago. Authorities cite his continued use of his Israeli passport immediately after becoming a Thai citizen as a primary reason for the revocation. He reportedly left Thailand for Hong Kong on June 14, 2019, the same day he received his Thai identity card, using his Israeli passport, and returned nine days later with the same document.
The Thai Ministry of Interior also stated that Blushstein failed to declare his Uruguayan nationality when he applied for naturalization. The decision is based on the 1965 Thai Nationality Act, which allows for the withdrawal of citizenship from naturalized individuals under specific circumstances, though such actions are described as exceptional.
No criminal charges have been filed against Blushstein in this matter, and no arrest or expulsion has been announced. The revocation occurs amid growing tensions related to the Israeli presence in Thailand, with recent controversies involving Israeli tourists, entrepreneurs, and institutions.
