No ‘promised land’ in Pai: Thailand denies town has over 30,000 Israelis, amid local-foreigner tensions

Thailand Denies Rumors of Israeli "Promised Land" in Northern Town Amid Rising Tensions

Thailand has officially denied rumors circulating online that the northern town of Pai has become a "promised land" for Israelis, housing over 30,000 Jewish individuals. These rumors, which gained traction on social media platforms such as Facebook, claimed that a large Jewish community had settled in the town, even establishing a synagogue or Chabad House. However, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra dismissed the claims, stating, "We have already verified that this is not true." The government has taken steps to address the situation, with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior Anutin Charnvirakul planning a visit to Pai to assess the situation firsthand.

Clarifying the Facts: Israeli Tourists in Pai

While the rumors of a permanent Jewish settlement in Pai are unfounded, it is true that the town has seen a significant number of Israeli visitors. According to 2024 statistics, Pai welcomed 221,776 foreign tourists, with Israeli nationals ranking second at 31,735 visitors. However, Mae Hong Son’s tourist police inspector, Suwit Boonyaphen, clarified that the 30,000 figure refers to the total number of Israeli visitors over the past year, not permanent residents. In reality, the estimated number of Israeli tourists in Pai is closer to 2,000 to 3,000 annually. Pai, a picturesque town known for its natural beauty, has a local population of approximately 38,000, making the idea of a 30,000-strong permanent Israeli community implausible.

Chabad House in Pai: A Center for Tourists, Not a Settlement

The rumors also alleged that a Chabad House, a Jewish community center, had been established in Pai as a sign of permanent settlement. However, Suwit Boonyaphen confirmed that the Chabad House operates solely to cater to visiting Jewish tourists. He emphasized that Thailand has six other Chabad Houses located in major tourist destinations such as Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Bangkok, further dispelling the notion of Pai being a unique "promised land." Mae Hong Son police chief Songkrit Ontakrai echoed this statement, adding that complaints about the Chabad House being used for drug-related activities or illicit parties were unfounded. Police inspections of the center on February 11 found no evidence of illegal activities or major gatherings.

Incidents Involving Israeli Nationals Spark Tensions

Despite the clarification, tensions have risen in Pai due to incidents involving Israeli tourists. On February 13, four Israeli nationals—Daniel, Aviv, Or Emanoel, and Dan Nisko—were deported from Thailand for misconduct at Pai Hospital. A doctor at the hospital had shared a post on social media detailing their disruptive behavior, including smoking on hospital grounds, stealing items, and damaging property. The individuals also allegedly intimidated medical staff and attempted to enter restricted areas. After reviewing security footage, police fined each of them 3,000 baht (approximately $89) for harassment and causing a public disturbance. Their visas were revoked, and they were deported from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok on February 13.

Community Backlash and Calls for Action

The incident at Pai Hospital has fueled further complaints about the behavior of some Israeli tourists in the town. Local businesses, including restaurants, have reportedly put up "No Israel Here" signs, refusing service to Israeli nationals. Police Major Kriengkrai Sansalee noted that complaints often involve allegations of Israelis being drunk and rowdy, stealing, and bargaining aggressively in large groups. He added that these behaviors have affected local businesses, as other tourists opt to avoid the area when such groups are present. As of February, 13 Israelis had been charged and deported for crimes ranging from theft to public nuisance.

Broader Implications and Calls for Balance

The situation in Pai reflects broader challenges Thailand faces in managing tourism while maintaining harmony within local communities. Representatives of the local community filed a petition with the Pai police chief and district office on January 8, requesting an investigation and legal action against foreigners allegedly working without proper authorization or causing disturbances. While Thailand has always been a welcoming destination for international visitors, the government is under increasing pressure to address concerns about illegal activities and ensure that tourism benefits the local economy without disrupting community life. As the government works to establish a balance, the denied rumors of a "promised land" in Pai serve as a reminder of the importance of verifying information and addressing issues through dialogue and cooperation.