Phuket shop sign bars Israeli tourists, sparks debate

A Phuket shopkeeper has put up a sign barring Israeli tourists from entering, prompting a strong reaction on Thai social media after Phuket Times shared an image of it on Saturday, August 22.

According to a report from Naewna, the shop owner said the move followed a previous confrontation outside the business. The report did not identify the shop or give its precise location on the island.

Owner says sign is intended to prevent disputes

The shopkeeper said: "I was once verbally abused by Israelis in front of my shop. I cursed back that time, but my intention in putting up the sign is to prevent future problems arising from among #Israeli tourists."

Phuket Times had previously said it was preparing to submit a letter to authorities seeking an investigation into Israeli nationals at Patong beach. It cited alleged widespread dissatisfaction with what it called "arrogant" behaviour, including claims that locals had been chased away and outsiders barred from an area believed to have been acquired through nominee networks.

Online commenters call for wider action

After the image was posted, commenters backed the shopkeeper's decision. Some wrote that preventing problems early was the right approach, while others said they would do the same.

Other comments urged similar action across Phuket, with one saying shops should follow suit "until every shop in Phuket is affected". That comment said Thais should not allow foreigners to take advantage of or bully them, and should not welcome people with bad manners.

Several commenters called for Thai unity. Others said government agencies were weak and ordinary people had to protect themselves, while another said Phuket residents should unite because police, local administration and ISOC could not be relied upon.

One final comment urged people to "resist strongly", adding: "If you weaken, you will end up like the Palestinians."

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23 August 2026