Bangkok: Protesters rallied outside the Israeli Embassy in Bangkok on Thursday, demanding greater scrutiny of foreign property ownership and alleged nominee businesses and calling on foreign nationals to respect Thai laws and customs.
According to Anadolu Agency, the protesters gathered outside Ocean Tower II on Sukhumvit 21, where the embassy is located, carrying placards with slogans including "Thailand welcomes tourists, not war criminals," "No pad Thai for war criminals," "Boycott Israel," and "Stop Genocide." Organizers described the demonstration as an effort to protect Thai sovereignty, national interests, and domestic businesses.
The protest was led by former People's Alliance for Democracy leader Sondhi Limthongkul, whose "Take Thailand Back" movement organized the demonstration. Participants also included Panthep Puapongpan, chairman of the Thailand Watch Foundation; Nitithorn Lamlue; and Pichit Chaimongkol, a leader of the Network of Students and People for Reform of Thailand.
Sondhi read an open letter in Thai and English, urging the Israeli Embassy and the Thai government to take concrete action rather than simply receive the protesters' petition. The group called on Israeli authorities to urge their nationals to respect Thai laws and culture, cooperate with Thai authorities without shielding offenders, and support investigations into land ownership and Chabad centers.
The protesters also called on the embassy to convey their concerns to the Israeli government, including demands to end what they described as brutal actions against civilians, hospitals, and schools and to comply with international humanitarian law. The letter alleged that misconduct by some Israeli nationals, including violations of Thai law and disrespect for local customs, had caused problems for local communities.
It also raised concerns about Chabad centers and Israeli-linked land purchases in Chachoengsao, alleging that they were part of efforts to establish a territorial presence in Thailand. Further demonstrations are planned in several provinces, including Chonburi, Chanthaburi, and Khon Kaen.