Thailand summons Israeli envoy over tourists' conduct, demands stronger action

Following the meeting, the minister delivered a firm message, saying Thailand welcomes tourists, but that does not mean “tourists of any nationality can do whatever they want here.”

Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, summoned Israeli Ambassador to Thailand Alona Fisher-Kamm for talks on Tuesday in Bangkok amid a series of incidents involving Israelis in the country.

Following the meeting, the minister delivered a firm message, saying Thailand welcomes tourists but that does not mean “tourists of any nationality can do whatever they want here.” He said incidents involving some foreign visitors had harmed Thai people’s feelings, local culture, and way of life, particularly in areas such as Phuket and Phang Nga."

The remarks come as Thailand faces growing criticism over the behavior of some foreign tourists, while authorities have also drawn increased attention to the activities of Israelis in the country.

Ahead of the meeting, reports said Fisher-Kamm planned to raise concerns over what she described as growing hostility toward Israelis and Jews in Thailand, alongside broader issues related to bilateral relations between the two countries. During the talks, she acknowledged concerns over the behavior of some Israelis and proposed preparing a “dos and don'ts” document for Israeli travelers.

If created, the document is expected to be distributed through the Israeli Embassy, tourism companies, and airlines.

Thai government calls for stronger action

However, the Thai foreign minister made clear that, in the view of the Thai government, Israel needs to take more significant action on the issue.

A statement released ahead of the meeting said the minister and ambassador would hold a joint press conference afterward. However, according to local reporters, Fisher-Kamm left the venue immediately after the meeting and did not speak with journalists.

The details of the discussion were provided by the Thai foreign minister, who presented his government’s position regarding the conduct of foreign tourists and incidents involving Israelis.

The meeting came just two days before a planned protest outside the Israeli Embassy in Bangkok on September 10. The demonstration is part of a campaign against what organizers describe as “gray foreign capital” and foreign businesses that they claim operate through Thai nominees.

Among other issues, organizers have pointed to the activities of Israelis in Thailand, alongside Chinese, Russian, and other foreign nationals.