SONGKHLA, Thailand – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Tuesday dismissed claims Israelis have taken over Pai district in the northern province of Mae Hong Son, Thailand.
Ms Paetongtarn said it was baseless that the district was now home to thousands of Israelis with signs banning Thai locals to enter the area.
The premier affirmed that she has checked and the claims were not true.
Rumours spread online about an Israeli religious facility was set up in Pai district and it allegedly restricted Thai people from entering.
The venue, which operates as both a restaurant and Jewish synagogue, is reportedly holds religious gatherings on Friday-Saturday evenings with 100-180 Israeli attendees.
Ms Paetongtarn said that Deputy Prime Minister/Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul will vist Pai next week.
Mr. Anutin, meanwhile, played down the rumours, urging the public not to worry too much. He said it is impossible to take over the district. (TNA)
