Thai officials propose visa revocation for Israeli woman over hotel disputes

A local committee on the Thai island of Koh Phangan recommended on Thursday that the visa of a 33-year-old Israeli woman be revoked. The proposal follows two police complaints alleging that Einav Ashuel threatened and abused staff and tourists during recent visits to the island.

The committee, known as the Special Committee for Reviewing the Behavior of Foreign Nationals, held its meeting under the chairmanship of District Chief Paisit Thongcharoen. Attendees included local police commanders, immigration representatives, and tourist police. The group forwarded the case to immigration police for further action, though authorities have not yet confirmed if the visa has been formally canceled or if Ashuel has left the country.

District administration officials stated that the complaints detailed specific incidents at Than Sadet National Park and a local hotel. They alleged that Ashuel used services without payment, shouted, and insulted employees. The records also noted threats of physical harm directed at both staff and tourists. Responses from Ashuel and Israel's Foreign Ministry had not been received as of the announcement.

This action continues a pattern of enforcement measures targeting foreign visitors in the region. In late March, the same Koh Phangan committee recommended visa revocations for three Israelis. Those individuals had displayed Chabad flags, distributed leaflets, and used WhatsApp groups to promote Passover events on nearby Koh Tao. Local officials said the activities worried residents and business owners, potentially disrupting public order. A Chabad website later reported that the three were 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, receiving a suspended 15-day prison sentence and a fine of 5,000 baht. A deportation order was also issued against the French owner of the zoo following the same incident.

The enforcement approach extends beyond Israeli nationals. In early April, the Koh Phangan district chief announced the revocation of visas for 13 foreign tourists due to inappropriate behavior. He stated that inspections and monitoring would continue to protect the safety of residents and visitors. In May, the Israeli Embassy in Bangkok issued a warning to travelers after Phuket authorities signaled stricter penalties, including visa revocation, for those violating local laws.