Patong Chabad cancels Rosh Hashanah event after protest

PHUKET — 12 September 2026, The Chabad centre in Patong has temporarily cancelled a Rosh Hashanah dinner following a protest by hundreds of people outside the centre, citing concerns that the situation could escalate.

The decision came after a gathering outside the Chabad centre in Patong, Kathu district, Phuket, on 11 September.

An estimated 300-500 people, including Thai Buddhists, Thai Muslims and foreign residents, gathered to express opposition to the organisation of the Jewish New Year festival, Rosh Hashanah.

Protesters held signs and shouted messages opposing the event.

Israeli media have now reported that the situation around the Chabad centre returned to calm after the centre decided to temporarily cancel the festival dinner, which had originally been scheduled for the evening of 11 September.

According to the reports, the Patong Chabad centre sent advance notifications to Israelis and other people who had registered to attend the event.

The centre reportedly said the cancellation followed a request from Israeli security officials to avoid security risks, prevent potential confrontations and reduce tensions that could escalate into violence.

Those planning to attend were also asked to avoid approaching the area for their own safety.

The cancellation came amid heightened tensions surrounding the planned gathering and follows the large protest outside the centre on 11 September.