Thailand Warns Israeli Visitors Over Conduct Issues
Thailand's foreign minister warned that Israeli visitors and business operators must strictly comply with Thai law and respect local customs, after complaints about conduct in Phang Nga and Phuket prompted a meeting with Israel's ambassador
Bangkok — Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said Thailand will strictly enforce its laws against any foreign national who breaks them, following a meeting with Israeli Ambassador Alona Fisher-Kamm over concerns about some Israeli visitors and business operators in Thailand.
Sihasak, who is also a deputy prime minister, said the discussion at the Foreign Ministry addressed incidents involving Israeli nationals living, doing business or travelling in Thailand, which have prompted public concern.
He said Thai authorities would take firm action against Israeli nationals who stay in Thailand long term to operate businesses and violate Thai law. However, he stressed that this was not discrimination.
"Any foreigner who violates Thai law will face strict enforcement," he said, noting that authorities had ordered the deportation of one Israeli and one French national.
Sihasak also raised concerns about the behaviour of some Israeli tourists, whether short- or long-term visitors, saying it had affected local sentiment, customs and community life, particularly in Phang Nga and Phuket, where Israeli communities have formed.
"Thailand welcomes tourists, but that does not mean visitors of any nationality can do whatever they want here," he said. "Tourists coming to Thailand must understand Thai culture and traditions, just as Thai tourists travelling abroad must respect the customs and values of the countries they visit."
He said the concerns should not be used to generalise about all Israelis.
The ambassador acknowledged the issues and had already undertaken outreach, Sihasak said, but he urged Israel to step up its efforts and work closely with Thai authorities. Failure to address the matter could affect bilateral relations, he added.
Thailand and Israel cooperate in several areas, including agriculture and labour. Sihasak said more than 60,000 Thai workers are currently in Israel.
The ambassador proposed preparing guidance on what Israeli visitors should and should not do in Thailand. The material would be distributed through Israeli diplomatic channels, tour companies and airlines, Sihasak said.
He said tourism was important to Thailand, but could not be viewed only in terms of revenue.
"Visitors cannot simply bring money into Thailand and then do everything they want," he said. "Thailand's dignity and honour must also be respected."
