In this photo provided by the Imperial Household Agency of Japan, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako pose for a photo at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, on Feb. 13, 2025, ahead of his 65th birthday on Sunday, Feb. 23. (Imperial Household Agency via AP)
TOKYO (AP) — Japan’s Emperor Naruhito, marking his 65th birthday Sunday, stressed the importance of telling the tragedy of World War II to younger generations, pledging to contribute to efforts to promote the understanding of history and the determination for peace as the world this year observes the 80th anniversary of the war’s end.
“As the memory of the war fades today, it is important that the tragic experiences and history are passed on to the generations who do not know the war,” Naruhito told a news conference in a pre-recorded comments released Sunday.
Those who went through the ordeals during and after the war grew have grown older and it is difficult for younger generations to hear their firsthand stories, Naruhito said.
Naruhito, accompanied by his wife, Empress Masako, their daughter Princess Aiko and some of his younger brother’s family, waved from the palace balcony at the cheering well-wishers. Later Sunday, he was to celebrate his birthday at a palace banquet.
In this photo provided by the Imperial Household Agency of Japan, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako pose for a photo at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, on Feb. 13, 2025, ahead of his 65th birthday on Sunday, Feb. 23. (Imperial Household Agency via AP)
The war was fought in the name of his grandfather, then- Emperor Hirohito. Naruhito said he and Masako, who were born after the war, have learned from his parents by hearing their stories of wartime experiences and thoughts about peace. His father Akihito, who abdicated in 2019, was known for his devotion to making amends for the war, and Naruhito said he will follow his example.
His concern resonates especially with that of many survivors of U.S. atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August, 1945, who are worried about the lack of progress in nuclear disarmament and growing support for nuclear deterrence.
The survivors, or hibakusha, have said they hope the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to their organization, Nihon Hidankyo, for the decades-long nuclear disarmament effort would raise awareness of the younger generations.
This year, Naruhito and Masako are expected to visit Hiroshima and Nagasaki to pay tribute to those killed by the U.S. atomic bombings and Okinawa, the site of one of the harshest battles in the war.
Turkish YouTuber Deniz Pemiz hitchhiking along Phahonyothin Road near Future Park Rangsit, where locals helped create his Thai-language sign seeking a ride to Chiang Mai on Feb. 21, 2025.
PATHUM THANI — What started as a challenging six-hour wait on a Pathum Thani roadside has turned into a heartwarming testament to Thai hospitality that’s capturing hearts across social media. Deniz Pemiz, a Turkish travel YouTuber from Istanbul, found himself experiencing the legendary Thai kindness firsthand during his attempted journey to Chiang Mai.
Standing by the highway with just a thumbs-up gesture, Pemiz’s initial attempts to hitchhike proved unsuccessful. As the Thai sun blazed overhead, local office worker Ronnarong Phetcharoen, 46, watched as the determined traveler maintained his position from morning until early afternoon, sparking concern among nearby workers.
A local resident engages with Turkish backpacker Deniz Pemiz after noticing his determined hours-long hitchhiking attempt in Pathum Thani on Feb. 21, 2025.
The tide turned when compassion met practical action. Ronnarong approached with a welcome bottle of water, while another local resident, Kanokpol Kaewwichit, 34, provided the crucial missing piece – a handwritten Thai sign reading “Need a ride to Chiang Mai.” This simple cultural bridge would prove transformative.
What followed showcases the power of community in the digital age. A local Facebook page shared Pemiz’s story, leading to an outpouring of support. The page administrator went beyond virtual assistance, treating Pemiz to traditional Thai dishes and securing his bus ticket to Chiang Mai.
Deniz at the ticket counter, about to receive his bus ticket to Chiang Mai – a happy ending made possible by social media and community support on Feb. 21, 2025.A smiling Deniz shows his Chiang Mai-bound ticket, gifted by locals who responded to his viral hitchhiking story on Feb. 21, 2025.
“I’m discovering Thailand’s rich culture through its people’s generosity,” shares Pemiz, who has explored 25 countries on his world tour. “This isn’t about tourism or parties – it’s about understanding the heart of Thai culture.”
The story resonated deeply on social media, with Pemiz later expressing his gratitude online. “From the water bottle in the heat to the delicious Thai meal and bus ticket – every gesture showed me the true spirit of Thailand,” he reflected, promising to share this experience with his global YouTube audience.
Deniz stops for a local meal at a street-side rice and curry stall in Pathum Thani while waiting for his bus to Chiang Mai, courtesy of caring locals on Feb. 21, 2025.
For Pemiz, whose journey has taken him through Sri Lanka, India, and Nepal before reaching Thailand, this six-hour wait became more than just a travel delay – it transformed into a powerful demonstration of how small acts of kindness can transcend language barriers and cultural differences.
Through one traveler’s story, the world got a glimpse of what makes Thai hospitality special – the natural inclination to help, the community spirit, and the genuine warmth that turns strangers into friends.
CCTV footage shows the Pakistani couple entering Neptune Salon on Koh Phangan at 8:02 p.m. on Feb. 21, 2025.
KOH PHANGAN — A Pakistani couple’s attempt to evade payment at a hair salon in Koh Phangan through an elaborate scheme was thwarted after CCTV footage exposed their deception.
The incident occurred at Neptune Salon on February 21 between 8:02-8:52 p.m., when the couple staged a dispute during a haircut service. Salon owner Kanjana Matura reported that the husband and wife created a scene over the haircut length, with the husband demanding a shorter cut against his wife’s protests.
After the service was completed, the couple enacted what appeared to be a planned escape. CCTV footage revealed the husband displaying an empty wallet before the pair stormed out, falsely claiming dissatisfaction with the haircut. Cameras caught them laughing together outside the establishment moments later.
The Pakistani couple caught on CCTV laughing outside Neptune Salon after refusing to pay the 500-baht ($15) haircut fee on Feb. 21, 2025.
“The footage clearly showed their wallet was empty when they pretended to pay, and they were seen laughing together after leaving the salon,” Matura told reporters. She subsequently shared the incident on her Facebook page “Karn Karnjana” to warn other local businesses.
Following a police report filed on February 22, Koh Phangan Police quickly located the Pakistani tourists, who then agreed to pay the 500-baht ($15) service fee.
The area at Kratinglay Beach, Pattaya, where Thai teenagers witnessed inappropriate conduct by foreign tourists. Photo taken on Feb. 22, 2025.
PATTAYA — A disturbing incident of public indecency involving foreign tourists at Kratinglay Beach has prompted local residents to call for greater awareness of appropriate conduct in public spaces.
The incident, which occurred late Friday night on February 21, was reported by an 18-year-old Thai tourist identified only as “Bew,” who was visiting the beach with four friends. The group had chosen to relax in a populated area of the beach due to limited lighting when they witnessed the inappropriate behavior.
According to Bew’s account, two foreign tourists engaged in intimate acts on the rocky area of Kratinglay Beach, displaying complete disregard for other beachgoers in the vicinity. Despite warnings from onlookers, the couple continued their behavior before eventually departing to the water.
Thai teens witness inappropriate behavior at Kratinglay Beach on Feb. 21, 2025.
“We recommend that tourists who wish to engage in such activities should consider using proper accommodation instead of public spaces,” Bew stated to local reporters.
Local journalists note that this is not an isolated incident. The particular area, which is relatively secluded, has seen similar occurrences in the past. While some cases have been reported to authorities, many visitors choose not to file formal complaints to avoid disrupting their vacation.
The incident has raised concerns about maintaining appropriate behavior standards in Pattaya’s public spaces, particularly in beach areas frequented by both local and international tourists.
FILE - Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. CQ Brown speaks during a press briefing, April 26, 2024, at the Pentagon in Washington. (AP Photo/Kevin Wolf, File)
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump abruptly fired Air Force Gen. CQ Brown Jr. as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on Friday, sidelining a history-making fighter pilot and respected officer as part of a campaign led by his defense secretary to rid the military of leaders who support diversity and equity in the ranks.
The ouster of Brown, only the second Black general to serve as chairman, is sure to send shock waves through the Pentagon. His 16 months in the job had been consumed with the war in Ukraine and the expanded conflict in the Middle East.
“I want to thank General Charles ‘CQ’ Brown for his over 40 years of service to our country, including as our current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He is a fine gentleman and an outstanding leader, and I wish a great future for him and his family,” Trump posted on social media.
Brown’s public support of Black Lives Matter after the police killing of George Floyd had made him fodder for the administration’s wars against “wokeism” in the military. His ouster is the latest upheaval at the Pentagon, which plans to cut 5,400 civilian probationary workers starting next week and identify $50 billion in programs that could be cut next year to redirect those savings to fund Trump’s priorities.
Trump said he’s nominating retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Dan “Razin” Caine to be the next chairman. Caine is a career F-16 pilot who served on active duty and in the National Guard, and was most recently the associate director for military affairs at the CIA, according to his military biography.
This image provided by the U.S. Air Force shows Lt. Gen. Dan Caine. (U.S. Air Force via AP)
Caine’s military service includes combat roles in Iraq, special operations postings and positions inside some of the Pentagon’s most classified special access programs.
However, he has not had key assignments identified in law as prerequisites for the job, including serving as either the vice chairman, a combatant commander or a service chief. That requirement could be waived if the “president determines such action is necessary in the national interest.”
More Pentagon firings
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, in a statement praising both Caine and Brown, announced the firings of two additional senior officers: Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti and Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. Jim Slife.
Franchetti becomes the second top female military officer to be fired by the Trump administration. Trump fired Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Linda Fagan just a day after he was sworn in.
A surface warfare officer, Franchetti has commanded at all levels, heading U.S. 6th Fleet and U.S. Naval Forces Korea. She was the second woman ever to be promoted to four-star admiral, and she did multiple deployments, including as commander of a naval destroyer and two stints as aircraft carrier strike group commander.
Slife led Air Force Special Operations Command prior to becoming the service’s vice chief of staff and had deployed to the Middle East and Afghanistan.
He told The Associated Press on Friday: “The President and Secretary of Defense deserve to have generals they trust and the force deserves to have generals who have credibility with our elected and appointed officials. While I’m disappointed to leave under these circumstances, I wouldn’t want the outcome to be any different.”
Trump has asserted his executive authority in a much stronger way in his second term, removing most officials from the Biden administration even though many of those positions are meant to carry over from one administration to the next.
The chairman role was established in 1949 as an adviser to the president and secretary of defense, as a way to filter all of the views of the service chiefs and more readily provide that information to the White House without the president having to reach out to each individual military branch, according to an Atlantic Council briefing written by retired Maj. Gen. Arnold Punaro. The role has no actual command authority.
Trump acted despite support for Brown among key members of Congress and a seemingly friendly meeting with him in mid-December, when the two were seated next to each other for a time at the Army-Navy football game.
The firing follows days of speculation after a list of officers, including Brown, to be fired was circulated on Capitol Hill — but notably was not sent via any formal notification to either of the Republican chairmen of the House or Senate armed services committees.
Sen. Roger Wicker, GOP chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, didn’t mention Caine’s name in a statement Friday.
“I thank Chairman Brown for his decades of honorable service to our nation,” Wicker said. “I am confident Secretary Hegseth and President Trump will select a qualified and capable successor for the critical position of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.”
Congressional Democratic leaders called out the firings as a direct attempt to politicize the military.
“A professional, apolitical military that is subordinate to the civilian government and supportive of the Constitution rather than a political party is essential to the survival of our democracy,” Rhode Island Sen. Jack Reed, ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said in a statement late Friday. “For the sake of our troops and the well-being of every American, elected leaders — especially Senate Republicans — must defend that enduring principle against corrosive attempts to remake the military into a partisan force.”
President Donald Trump speaks at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla., Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025. (Pool via AP)
Brown risked discussing race
Brown’s future was called into question during the confirmation hearing for Hegseth last month. Asked if he would fire Brown, Hegseth responded, “Every single senior officer will be reviewed based on meritocracy, standards, lethality and commitment to lawful orders they will be given.”
Hegseth had previously taken aim at Brown. “First of all, you gotta fire, you know, you gotta fire the chairman of Joint Chiefs,” he said flatly in a podcast in November. And in one of his books, he questioned whether Brown got the job because he was Black.
“Was it because of his skin color? Or his skill? We’ll never know, but always doubt — which on its face seems unfair to CQ. But since he has made the race card one of his biggest calling cards, it doesn’t really much matter,” Hegseth wrote.
As he walked into the Pentagon on his first day as defense chief on Jan. 27, Hegseth was asked directly if he planned to fire Brown.
“I’m standing with him right now,” said Hegseth, patting Brown on the back. “Look forward to working with him.”
Brown, who spent Friday visiting troops at the U.S.-Mexico border, drew attention to himself for speaking out about the death of George Floyd in 2020. While he knew it was risky, he said, discussions with his wife and sons about the killing convinced him he needed to say something.
As protests roiled the nation, Brown posted a video message to the Air Force titled, “Here’s What I’m Thinking About.” He described the pressures that came with being one of the few Black men in his unit. He recalled pushing himself “to perform error-free” as a pilot and officer his whole life, but still facing bias. He said he’d been questioned about his credentials, even when he wore the same flight suit and wings as every other pilot.
Brown’s path to the chairmanship was troubled — he was among the more than 260 senior military officers whose nominations were stalled for months by Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville of Alabama. But when the Senate vote was finally taken in September 2023, Brown easily was confirmed by a vote of 89-8.
It had been 30 years since Colin Powell became the first Black chairman, serving from 1989 to 1993. But while African Americans made up 17.2% of the 1.3 million active-duty service members, only 9% of officers were Black, according to a 2021 Defense Department report.
Brown’s service as chairman made history in that this was the first time that both the defense secretary, Lloyd Austin, and the Joint Chiefs chairman were Black.
An Israeli soldier holds his cellphone as he walks into Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, Israel, Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025, as Palestinian militant groups hand over four bodies to the Red Cross in Gaza. Israel has identified three of the bodies as hostages and said the other was of an unknown person. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)
JERUSALEM (AP) — Hamas released the remains of three Israeli hostages this week as part of a fragile ceasefire that began in January, but a fourth body handed over was that of Palestinian woman, Israeli officials said.
The remains sent to Israel on Thursday were those of children Ariel and Kfir Bibas as well as Oded Lifshitz, who was 83 when he was abducted. Kfir, who was 9 months old when he was taken, was the youngest captive. His brother was 4.
A fourth body that Hamas had said was that of the Bibas children’s mother was also released — but DNA tests showed it was not Shiri Bibas, said Israel’s military.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed revenge Friday for what he described as a “cruel and malicious violation” of the ceasefire agreement. In a statement, Hamas said it would “conduct a thorough review,” suggesting a mix-up of remains might have occurred after Israeli bombing of the area where both the hostages and Palestinians were present.
Hamas abducted some 250 people in its Oct. 7, 2023, attack that triggered the war. More than 48,000 Palestinians in Gaza, mostly women and children, have been killed in the ensuing conflict, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which doesn’t distinguish between civilians and combatants.
Hamas had agreed to release 33 Israeli hostages for nearly 2,000 prisoners and detainees during the first phase of the ceasefire. Five Thai citizens who were working in Israel and abducted were freed last month as part of a separate deal.
Six hostages who are still alive are expected to be released on Saturday in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
Here are details on the hostages taken on Oct. 7, 2023:
Total captured: 251
Hostages freed in exchanges or other deals: 136, of whom 3 died in captivity
Hostages still in captivity: 67, of whom Israel has declared 31 to be dead
Hostages in captivity who are soldiers: 13, of whom Israel has declared 7 to be dead
Bodies of dead hostages retrieved by Israeli troops: 40
Hostages rescued alive: 8
Non-Israelis still in captivity: 5 ( 3 Thais, 1 Nepalese, 1 Tanzanian), of whom 2 (1 Thai and 1 Nepalese) are believed to still be alive
Separately:
Three Israelis have been held in Gaza since before the Oct. 7, 2023, attack: the body of one soldier killed in the 2014 war and two civilians who entered Gaza on their own in 2014 and 2015 and are believed to be alive.
Phuket police apprehend an Australian couple suspected of multiple bag-snatching incidents in their hotel room in the Rawai area on Feb. 21, 2025.
PHUKET — Police in Phuket have apprehended an Australian couple suspected of multiple bag-snatching incidents targeting foreign tourists in the Rawai area. The arrests were made through a joint operation between Chalong Police Station, Phuket Immigration, and Tourist Police.
Sam B., 25, and Susan A., 36, both Australian nationals, were arrested on February 21 at 9:30 a.m. at their residence. The suspects allegedly used a white and red Honda PCX motorcycle with Phuket license plate 1 KJ 5510 to commit two separate robberies on February 19.
In the first incident, occurring at approximately 9:30 p.m. near Samaggi Soi 4 in Rawai, the couple allegedly snatched a handbag containing a mobile phone and other valuables from a foreign couple outside a convenience store. Less than an hour later, at 10:29 p.m., another victim reported having their mobile phone stolen by suspects matching the same description near a Thai massage shop on Rawai Beach Road.
CCTV footage shows the Australian couple using the same motorcycle in two bag-snatching incidents in Phuket on Feb. 19, 2025.
Police investigators identified the suspects through CCTV footage, which showed the same motorcycle being used in both incidents. The investigation revealed that the motorcycle had been rented by Sam B. After gathering sufficient evidence, the police obtained arrest warrants from the Phuket Provincial Court.
During the arrest, police seized several pieces of evidence, including the Honda PCX motorcycle used in the crimes and the clothing worn during the incidents. Both suspects have been charged with theft using a vehicle to facilitate the crime or escape arrest.
Police Colonel Ekkarat Plaiduang, Superintendent of Chalong Police Station, urged both locals and tourists to remain vigilant with their belongings in public areas. He encouraged anyone witnessing suspicious activities to report them to Chalong Police Station at 076-381-247.
The United States has maintained its position as the world’s leading soft power nation while China has overtaken the United Kingdom for second place, according to Brand Finance’s 2025 Global Soft Power Index. Thailand held relatively steady at 39th place, showing modest improvement in the rankings.
The US secured its highest-ever score of 79.5 out of 100, though concerns about its political stability emerged amid Trump’s return to presidency. China’s rise to second place with 72.8 points reflects its strategic investments in global influence through initiatives like the Belt and Road project and increased focus on sustainability.
Brand Finance Chairman David Haigh highlighted China’s strategic approach to soft power. “This historic shift in rankings demonstrates the effectiveness of China’s long-term investment in soft power,” he said. “It’s the first time in our index’s six-year history that China has outranked the United Kingdom.”
In Southeast Asia, Singapore leads the region at 21st place, followed by Malaysia (36th), Thailand (39th), Indonesia (45th), Vietnam (52nd), and the Philippines (53rd).
Thailand’s position improved slightly from 40th place, with its brand value increasing 5.1% to $531,090. This progress follows the country’s establishment of a National Soft Power Strategy Committee in 2023, initially under then-Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and continued by current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
Brand Finance’s comprehensive study, based on surveys of over 170,000 respondents across more than 100 countries, reveals a growing divide between nations’ soft power potential. Top-ranked countries continue to advance while lower-ranked nations fall behind, creating what experts describe as a “zero-sum game” in global influence.
Notable movements in the rankings include El Salvador’s 35-position jump to 82nd place, while nations involved in military conflicts saw declining influence, with Israel dropping to 33rd and Ukraine falling to 46th position.
CCTV Control Room footage shows Chinese gamblers participating in illegal gambling activities at the Phuket Poker Sport Club (PPSC) in Soi Phun Phon, Mueang District, Phuket Province on February 21, 2021.
PHUKET — Police have arrested 13 Chinese tourists who allegedly flew to Thailand specifically to participate in illegal gambling activities at an underground poker establishment in the city center. The arrests were made during a joint operation by Phuket Provincial Police on February 21.
Following an extensive investigation, law enforcement officials discovered that Chinese investors had been operating an illegal gambling operation at the Phuket Poker Sport Club (PPSC) in Soi Phun Phon, Talat Nuea subdistrict, with local Thai management. Police conducted the raid at 11:00 p.m. Friday, resulting in the arrest of 14 individuals – 13 Chinese nationals and one Thai citizen.
Phuket authorities arrest 13 Chinese tourists participating in illegal gambling activities at the Phuket Poker Sport Club (PPSC) in Phuket Province, on Feb. 21, 2025.
During the operation, authorities seized substantial evidence including four poker tables, two fish shooting game machines, five electronic mahjong tables, gambling chips worth 1,030,000 baht ($30,650) and 32 other items of evidence. All suspects and evidence were transferred to Phuket City Police Station for legal proceedings.
Investigators are continuing their probe to identify and prosecute other individuals involved in supporting the illegal gambling operation, particularly focusing on the Chinese investors behind the enterprise.
The substantial evidence, including four poker tables, two fish shooting game machines, five electronic mahjong tables, and gambling chips, was transferred to Phuket City Police Station for legal proceedings.
Police Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomjit, Commander of Provincial Police Region 8, stated that the operation was part of the government’s urgent measures to address illegal immigration and unlawful business operations by foreigners, including transnational crime. National Police Chief Police General Kittirat Phanphet has emphasized the importance of effective crime suppression in these areas.
While gambling remains illegal in Thailand, underground operations continue to proliferate, with Chinese tourists often renting venues such as restaurants to run gambling operations in collaboration with local Thai accomplices.
The current government is considering policies to legalize and regulate gambling establishments, including a proposal for entertainment complexes with integrated casinos, though this remains a contentious issue among the public.
Tourists enjoy sunset views at Mae Hi viewpoint in Pai, Mae Hong Son, on Feb. 21, 2025.
BANGKOK/PAI — In the wake of growing tensions between locals and tourists in Pai, Mae Hong Son province, the Israeli Embassy in Thailand has issued a statement on Friday calling for Israeli tourists to respect local laws and customs, while Israeli visitors in the area seek to address misconceptions and anti-Israeli sentiment that has emerged on social media.
The situation has drawn enough attention that the Prime Minister has had to deny rumors of Israelis “taking over” Pai, with tour operators urging calm to prevent damage to the tourism industry.
Israeli Tourists Speak Out
On February 20, four Israeli tourists – Miss Gabriella, Miss Sivan, Mr. Kfir Stoig and Mr. Lior – addressed concerns at a sunset viewpoint in Mae Hi Subdistrict, Pai District. They specifically tackled allegations about Jewish religious gatherings, explaining that these meetings are open to everyone, similar to temples or mosques, serving as spaces for religious rituals and communal meals – a fact confirmed by local security officials during their inspections.
Four Israeli tourists speak to a Matichon reporter about visitors causing problems in Pai District, Mae Hong Son Province, on Feb. 20. They emphasized that such behavior represents only ‘a tiny percentage’ of Israeli visitors.
The tourists strongly denied claims about establishing Pai as a “promised land,” emphasizing that they visit purely to experience local traditions, culture, and natural beauty. While acknowledging that some visitors have caused problems, they stressed that such behavior represents only “a tiny percentage of 100 percent” of Israeli visitors.
Embassy Issues Guidelines
In response to these incidents, the Israeli Embassy in Thailand issued a statement on their Facebook page on February 21, urging Israeli tourists to follow regulations and respect local culture. The statement emphasizes several key points:
The statement emphasizes several key points:
Maintain quiet and avoid loud voices on streets, in hotels, and public places
Respect private and public spaces; avoid disturbing others or trespassing
Strictly follow Thai laws and avoid problematic or illegal behavior
Dress appropriately and modestly in public
Follow rules at various locations such as temples, markets, and public spaces
The Embassy noted that these incidents have impacted the image of Israeli tourists in Thailand, with some cases resulting in deportation. They emphasized Thailand’s status as a popular destination for Israelis and the traditionally warm welcome extended by Thai people.
Local Perspective
Udmalak Chawalit, a retired civil servant and business owner in Pai, suggested that the crisis could have been avoided through better adherence to local regulations and proper business management. She emphasized the need for strict and fair law enforcement while calling for business owners to take responsibility for maintaining the city’s integrity.
“For more than 20 days, officials including county authorities, local police, immigration and immigration police have been investigating and working to restore order. But business owners should also be part of discussions to ensure concrete legal compliance,” she stated.
Moving Forward
Miss Gabriella, speaking on behalf of her fellow Israeli tourists, concluded with a message to other visitors: “We would like to remind our fellow Israeli travelers to be more mindful, not to cause inconvenience to locals and public places, and to respect the community. We are grateful to the people of Pai for welcoming us.”
The Embassy’s statement concludes by emphasizing the importance of maintaining good relations between the Israeli and Thai communities through mutual respect and understanding.
