Interior Minister Visits Northern Tourist Town Amid Concerns Over Israeli Tourists
PUBLISHED : 26 Feb 2025 at 18:11
Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited the popular tourist destination of Pai in northern Thailand on Wednesday, addressing concerns over the presence of Israeli tourists in the area. The minister called allegations of an Israeli “takeover” of the town exaggerated.
During his visit, which included discussions with the Israeli ambassador to Thailand, Anutin emphasized that there is no evidence supporting claims of security threats related to the influx of Israeli visitors.
He cited the provincial governor’s remarks, stating that concerns regarding Israeli tourists have been magnified. Anutin reassured the public that these visitors are not a risk to national security or the local populace.
Paired with Pai’s long-standing reputation as an attractive tourist hub, Anutin noted that many visitors tend to stay for extended durations and engage in local business investments. “I have been assured that these visitors comply with laws and do not threaten the community,” he said.
The minister acknowledged that cultural variations may lead to misunderstandings, promising initiatives to enhance community relations and understanding.
This visit coincided with reports of tension between locals and Israeli tourists, especially after an incident involving four Israeli nationals who vandalized the emergency room at Pai Hospital while seeking access to a friend injured in a motorcycle accident. The individuals faced fines, had their visas revoked, and were deported.
During the visit, Anutin toured the local Chabad House, a center for Jewish worship and community activity, underscoring its openness to everyone while maintaining security measures.
Rabbi Nehemya Wilhelm, who manages the center, clarified that contradicting reports claiming a massive Israeli presence in Pai are unfounded. He indicated that there are only about 50 Israelis living in the area despite over 30,000 Israeli tourists visiting annually.
Ambassador remarks highlighted that approximately 20 Israeli families have settled in Pai, forming intercultural relationships and integration with local communities. Prior to the pandemic, Thailand attracted around 200,000 Israeli tourists annually, a figure that has surged to approximately 300,000 in recent years.
The ambassador stressed the importance of understanding and acceptance, urging against negative perceptions of Israeli tourists due to cultural differences.
Thailand is home to six Chabad houses, including locations in major cities and tourist destinations, all maintaining heightened security given the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.
