High Spirits,
Didn't say they could afford them, just said they wanted them! They have two STOVL flat tops (1 new), their Harriers can last another decade probably after which they may be in a position to order replacements which means F-35Bs. Maybe they will still be in the crapper economically, maybe not. Doesn't change the fact the requirement is there.
As for Thailand, Chakri Narubet can accomodate F-35Bs, but their budget can't afford the running costs of the AV-8As they already have (betond minimum ops for show). Unless their economy seriously revives they won't be ordering new aircraft anytime soon.