Israeli Embassy warns against fake news targeting Israelis in Thailand

BANGKOK – The Israeli Embassy in Thailand has urged the public to verify information before sharing it online, warning that false stories about Israeli nationals in the country can fuel fear, deepen misunderstandings and unfairly harm communities.

In a video published on 16 October, Rami Teplitskiy, deputy chief of mission at the embassy, addressed several claims circulating on social media, including allegations of theft by Israeli tourists and reports of Israeli flags being flown across Koh Phangan.

Teplitskiy referred to a recent incident in Patong, Phuket, in which two tourists were accused of taking products from a convenience store without paying. He said the claim that the tourists were Israeli was false.

According to Teplitskiy, Thai police and subsequent news reports confirmed that the individuals involved were of other nationalities, although the incident itself had occurred.

He also dismissed online claims that numerous Israeli flags had been flown across Koh Phangan, saying local authorities had checked and confirmed that the reported incident had not taken place. He described the images as fake content generated using artificial intelligence.

“Don’t believe just headlines,” Teplitskiy said in the video, urging people to check sources and think critically before accepting or sharing claims on social media.

The embassy said false stories about Israelis in Thailand had recently circulated online, including allegations of theft, mass migration and other inappropriate behaviour.

“Fake news does more than spread incorrect information. It can create fear, deepen misunderstanding, and unfairly harm individuals and entire communities,” the embassy said in its statement.

The embassy added that it welcomed genuine concerns and open discussion, but stressed that such conversations should be based on verified facts.

Teplitskiy acknowledged that misconduct could occur anywhere and said individuals should be held responsible for their actions. However, he urged the public to question the credibility and source of stories involving Israelis or Israel before drawing conclusions.

The embassy said accurate understanding was the foundation of lasting friendship and thanked the Thai public for its hospitality.