Patong Chabad Cancels Rosh Hashanah Event Amidst Protest

PHUKET — The Chabad center in Patong has temporarily canceled a Rosh Hashanah dinner following a protest by hundreds of people outside the center, citing concerns that the situation could escalate. The decision came after a gathering outside the Chabad center in Patong, Kathu district, Phuket, on September 11. An estimated 300-500 people, including Thai Buddhists, Thai Muslims and foreign residents, gathered to express opposition to the organization 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 center returned to calm after the center decided to temporarily cancel the festival dinner, which had originally been scheduled for the evening of September 11. According to the reports, the Patong Chabad center sent advance notifications to Israelis and other people who had registered to attend the event. The center 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 center on September 11. The post Patong Chabad cancels Rosh Hashanah event after protest appeared first on Khaosod English.