Thai Minister Rejects “Israeli Territory” Remark During Phuket Chabad House Inspection

Thailand’s Deputy Interior Minister Polapee Suwannachet dismissed a claim that a Chabad House in Patong was “Israeli territory” during an official inspection on July 23, reaffirming that Thai law applies equally to everyone in the country.

The exchange took place while officials were inspecting the Chabad House as part of a wider campaign targeting suspected nominee shareholding arrangements and businesses that may be operating in violation of Thailand’s foreign business regulations.

According to officials, a man at the premises approached the inspection team and allegedly asked whether they knew they were on “Israeli territory.” The deputy minister immediately rejected the statement.

“This is Thailand. Everyone on Thai soil must obey Thai law. No one has the authority to claim sovereignty over any part of Thailand,” Polapee said.

He emphasized that the government does not discriminate against investors, residents or visitors based on nationality or religion. At the same time, he stressed that all foreign individuals and businesses must fully comply with Thai legislation.

Following the inspection, the Ministry of Interior instructed authorities to expand their review of 361 businesses in Phuket considered to be at risk of violating laws governing foreign business ownership.

According to Nation TV, government officials have visited the Patong Chabad House on several previous occasions, reminding its operators that all activities must be conducted in accordance with Thai law.

The Chabad House operates under the Chabad of Thailand Foundation, which manages six to seven centers across the country, including locations in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, Mae Hong Son, and Phuket.

While Thailand’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, authorities noted that all religious organizations and activities remain subject to Thai law and public order regulations.

The inspection comes as public attention has also turned to Koh Pha Ngan, where a new community venue known as the Secular House recently opened opposite the island’s Chabad House. Established by Israel’s Free Secular Movement, the center offers a non-religious gathering place for Israeli travelers and promotes secular values and the separation of religion and state.