Thailand to deport French zoo owner who barred Israelis

Thailand announced on Monday its intention to deport a French zoo owner, Kevin Dimino, who barred Israeli visitors from his park on Koh Samui due to instances of misconduct by some Israeli tourists. The government cited Dimino's threatening, harassing, and physically abusive behavior as grounds for his deportation, which violated public order, good morals, and public welfare.

Dimino, who owns the Samui Exotic Park with his Thai wife, was fined ฿5,000 (US$150) by a local court for an earlier incident involving his actions. This comes days after the government similarly ordered Israeli national Yaacov Ohayon to leave the country for causing fear or panic through threats. Dimino had previously hung a Palestinian flag at his zoo in response to the bad behavior of some Israeli tourists, which he claimed sparked online threats against him.

He later engaged in anti-Semitic statements following an altercation with an Israeli family. The government's deportation orders can be appealed within seven days. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that Thailand welcomes tourists but expects them to respect local laws, Thai people, and customs. The government issued new regulations on when foreigners could be expelled amid increased scrutiny of tourists' behavior.