Four Jewish Graves Moved in Thailand After Cemetery License Not Renewed

Four Jewish graves were relocated from a cemetery in Chachoengsao, near Bangkok, Thailand, after authorities declined to renew its operating license. The move was carried out with the assistance of ZAKA, an Israeli emergency response organization, ensuring respect for the deceased and adherence to Jewish law.

The Jewish community in Thailand has operated a cemetery in Bangkok for about thirty years. In 2021, anticipating the existing site reaching capacity, the community purchased a larger plot of land in Chachoengsao to serve as a new Jewish cemetery. Following the purchase, the community obtained all necessary permits from the authorities to operate the site, with the license initially issued for three years, as per Thai regulations requiring triennial renewal.

During its operation, four individuals were buried at the new location. In 2024, as the license expired, the community applied for renewal, but the authorities refused. The community appealed the decision to the court, and the case is still pending. Meanwhile, after two years without a renewed license and amid increased scrutiny of matters concerning Israelis in the country, the community was required to move the graves.

Rabbi Yosef Chaim Kantor, the Chabad emissary and Chief Rabbi of Thailand, emphasized that the community acted lawfully throughout the process. He stated that the site was legally acquired, operations began only after obtaining permits, and they pursued legal channels when the renewal was denied. He noted that the cemetery issue resurfaced recently due to heightened tensions and checks regarding Israelis in Thailand. "The place was purchased legally," Rabbi Kantor said, adding that the relocation was performed with great sorrow and pain, with full adherence to Jewish law and respect for the deceased.

The graves were transferred to a larger, active cemetery where the community had previously purchased plots for Jewish burials. This action ensures the deceased are laid to rest in an established location while respecting Jewish burial customs. Rabbi Kantor expressed gratitude to those who assisted in the sensitive process and highlighted the long-standing positive relationship between the Jewish community and Thai authorities and public, expressing hope for a de-escalation of tensions and continued mutual respect.