Thailand revokes visa of ‘Israeli’ woman amid broader enforcement push

Thai authorities on the popular tourist island of Koh Phangan have revoked the visa of a 33-year-old ‘Israeli’ woman following complaints of threatening and abusive behaviour, marking the latest step in intensified scrutiny of ‘Israeli’ visitors.

The Special Committee for Reviewing the Behavior of Foreign Nationals on Koh Phangan recommended the action against Einav Ashuel after local police received multiple complaints.

According to an official statement from the Koh Phangan district administration, two police complaints were filed against her.

Authorities allege that while visiting Than Sadet National Park and a hotel, she “used services without paying for them, shouted, cursed, insulted employees, and even threatened to physically harm staff members and tourists.”

The committee, chaired by District Chief Phaisit Thongjerm, reviewed the case at its seventh meeting of 2026 and referred it to immigration police.

Ashuel had been working on the island as an art therapist and breathwork guide, among other roles.

Officials did not specify the exact visa category she held, though it was believed to be a work-related permit, as ‘Israeli’ nationals may enter Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism but are not permitted to work without authorization.

She is the third ‘Israeli’ national on Koh Phangan to have a visa withdrawn this year; overall, ten foreigners have had their visas cancelled on the island since January for various transgressions.

She faces deportation and is expected to be placed on a blacklist that would bar future entry to Thailand.

As of the most recent reports, authorities had not independently confirmed whether physical deportation had already taken place.

The case falls under relatively new regulations, effective late August, that streamline the removal of foreigners whose conduct is deemed to threaten public order, good morals or public wellbeing.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has publicly urged provincial and district officials not to delay the removal of errant foreigners, noting that detaining them consumes national resources.

Governors have been given latitude to advance airfares if needed to expedite departures.

The incident occurs against a backdrop of heightened enforcement on tourist islands such as Koh Phangan, Koh Samui and Phuket, where local committees monitor foreign behaviour amid complaints involving public order and business practices.

Thai officials have emphasised that the measures apply regardless of nationality.

In September, Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow held a “frank discussion” with the ‘Israeli’ ambassador about concerns over certain ‘Israeli’ nationals’ conduct and business activities, stressing that while Thailand welcomes tourists, visitors must respect local laws, traditions and ways of life.

The ‘Israeli’ Embassy has previously advised its citizens travelling in Thailand to comply fully with local regulations.