Why Do Locals Rally Against Israeli Presence in Thailand?

September 11, 2026 | 10:24 pm

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Thai protesters rallied in front of the Israeli Embassy in Bangkok on Thursday to demand stricter controls on property ownership by foreign nationals and the alleged nominee businesses, according to Anadolu, as quoted by Antara.

They also called for foreigners to respect Thai laws and customs.

The protesters gathered in front of Ocean Tower II on Sukhumvit 21, where the embassy is located, holding signs with slogans including  "Thailand welcomes tourists, not war criminals," "No pad Thai for war criminals," "Boycott Israel" and "Stop Genocide," according to The Nation.

Organizers described the protest as part of the effort to protect Thailand's sovereignty, national interests, and domestic businesses.

The rally was led by former People's Alliance for Democracy leader Sondhi Limthongkul, whose "Take Thailand Back" movement was the initiator of the demonstration.

Several other prominent figures were also present, including Panthep Puapongpan, Chair of the Thailand Watch Foundation; Nitithorn Lamlue; and Pichit Chaimongkol, co-leader of the Network of Students and People for Reform of Thailand.

Sondhi read an open letter in Thai and English. He urged the Israeli Embassy and the Thai government to take concrete action, not simply accepting the protesters' petition.

The group called on Israeli authorities to urge its citizens to respect Thai law and culture, cooperate with Thai authorities without shielding offenders, and support investigations into land ownership and Chabad centers.

The protesters also asked the embassy to convey their concerns to the Israeli government, including demands to stop what they called brutal acts against civilians, hospitals, and schools, and to comply with international humanitarian law.

In the letter, the group alleged that violations committed by some Israeli citizens, including violations of Thai law and disrespect for local customs, have caused problems for the local community.

The letter also raised concerns about Chabad centers and Israeli-linked land purchases in Chachoengsao. Protesters accused these moves of being part of an effort to establish a territorial presence in Thailand.

Further demonstrations were planned in several provinces, including Chonburi, Chanthaburi, and Khon Kaen, Anadolu reported.

Read: Indonesia Supports UK Ban on Imports From Illegal Israeli Settlements

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