MAE HONG SON, Thailand – The influx of Israeli nationals in Pai, Mae Hong Son, has raised concerns among locals, who have even coined the term “Pai-les-tine” in reference to the growing community. The arrival of Israeli tourists and residents, particularly following the recent easing of military service requirements in Israel, has led to the establishment of a “Chabad House” in Pai, where Jewish religious activities take place every weekend. The community has been slowly expanding, with some Israeli-owned businesses opening in the area, such as restaurants, resorts, and barber shops, further fueling tensions.
The Israeli presence in Pai, particularly after Israel’s ceasefire agreement with Gaza, has become a subject of much discussion, with over 31,000 Israelis reportedly passing through the area, although only around 3,000 are said to have settled permanently. Many of these individuals are said to be young adults or those recently discharged from military service, with the funds they receive from the government being used for travel and relaxation.
The situation led to controversy as locals expressed concerns about the growing Israeli influence, with some businesses in Pai posting signs saying “No Israel here!” in protest. Additionally, there have been complaints about foreigners working without proper permits and concerns about disruptions caused by the influx of tourists. Local authorities have confirmed that the number of Israelis in the area has increased but emphasized that they are still a minority compared to other nationalities, such as the British.
Despite the controversies, local law enforcement has clarified that they are providing security in the area based on official requests from the Israeli embassy. While the Chabad House’s activities, which are mostly conducted on Fridays and Saturdays, continue to grow, the community remains a topic of intense debate among Pai’s residents.
