Bangkok: Thai News Agency has issued a statement to address allegations that it accepted public relations work from the Israeli Embassy in Thailand. These allegations surfaced following an exclusive interview with the Israeli Ambassador to Thailand, which was aired on September 4, 2026.
According to Thai News Agency, the exclusive interview was conducted by the Foreign News Director of the agency, focusing on public interest issues concerning tourists, long-term residents, Israeli business operations in Thailand, and religious sites like Chabad. The discussion also covered strategies for cooperation with Thai authorities to address these issues. The agency emphasized that it was the first media outlet to request such an interview, aiming to conduct a fact-finding investigation in line with journalistic ethics.
The agency highlighted its history of investigative reporting, notably an investigation from May 23-25, 2016, that uncovered the presence of massage parlors and various businesses on Koh Phangan, Surat Thani province, which had significant economic and social impacts on the Thai community. This investigation extended to Phuket, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Chachoengsao, revealing that major investors in these businesses had received Thai citizenship since 2017. This extensive investigation was carried out by both the central and regional offices of the Thai News Agency.
In light of the interview's publication, misunderstandings and accusations arose, suggesting that the Thai News Agency had engaged in public relations work for the Israeli Embassy. These claims, particularly prevalent in online forums and certain media outlets, threatened to tarnish the agency's reputation, credibility, and professional integrity, which it staunchly defends.
The Thai News Agency firmly denies these allegations and asserts its commitment to upholding its journalistic duty. The agency remains dedicated to investigating, verifying, and uncovering the truth regarding transnational nominee funding, a critical issue of public interest.