Two Complaints Trigger Visa Revocation Recommendation for Israeli Visitor in Thailand

A special committee on the Thai island of Koh Phangan recommended revoking the visa of Einav Ashuel, a 33-year-old Israeli woman, following two police complaints. The committee forwarded the case to immigration police for further action after a meeting chaired by District Chief Paisit Thongcharoen on Thursday.

The recommendation stems from allegations that Ashuel exhibited threatening and abusive behavior toward hotel employees and tourists. According to a statement from the district administration, she used services at Than Sadet National Park and a hotel without paying. Officials stated that during these incidents, she shouted, cursed, insulted staff, and threatened physical harm to employees and other visitors.

Local police commanders, representatives from the immigration and tourist police, and senior local officials attended the Thursday meeting. The group reviewed the conduct of foreign nationals on the island before deciding to refer Ashuel's case to immigration authorities.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the visa has been formally revoked or if Ashuel has been deported. Responses from Ashuel and Israel's Foreign Ministry have not been received as of this writing.

This action follows a pattern of enforcement against Israeli visitors in Thailand. In late March, the same committee recommended revoking the visas of three Israelis who displayed Chabad flags and distributed leaflets for Passover activities on nearby Koh Tao. Thai officials cited concerns that these actions could disrupt public order. A report on a Chabad website indicated the three were later deported.

In September, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul signed a deportation order for Israeli citizen Yaakov Ohayon. He had been convicted of making threats during a dispute at a zoo on Koh Samui, resulting in a suspended 15-day prison sentence and a fine of 5,000 baht. A deportation order was also issued against the zoo's French owner in the same case.

The committee's approach extends beyond Israeli nationals. In early April, the district chief announced that the visas of 13 foreign tourists had been revoked due to inappropriate behavior. In May, the Israeli Embassy in Bangkok issued a warning to travelers, noting that local officials in Phuket province had been instructed to impose stricter penalties, including visa revocation, for serious violations.