Thailand Revokes Citizenship of Chief Rabbi and Chabad Emissary
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
Thailand's Prime Minister and Interior Minister have revoked the citizenship of Rabbi Yosef Chaim Kantor, the country's Chief Rabbi and main Chabad emissary since 1993. The government alleges he continued using his U.S. passport after becoming a Thai citizen, a violation of local law. Chabad stated the decision is being handled legally and that their centers continue to operate as usual.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Thailand's Prime Minister and Interior Minister revoked the citizenship of Rabbi Yosef Chaim Kantor.
- Rabbi Kantor has been Thailand's Chief Rabbi and Chabad emissary since 1993.
- Authorities claim Rabbi Kantor used his U.S. passport after gaining Thai citizenship.
- The decision follows investigations and raids on businesses in Bangkok.
- Chabad stated the matter is being handled legally and their operations continue normally.
Thailand's Prime Minister and Interior Minister have signed an order revoking the citizenship of Rabbi Yosef Chaim Kantor, who has served as the country's Chief Rabbi and main Chabad representative since 1993. Authorities claim Rabbi Kantor continued to use his American passport for international travel after obtaining Thai citizenship, which they allege violates local law.
The decision follows a period of raids by Thai authorities on various locations in Bangkok as part of an investigation into companies, assets, and financial transactions. While business documents were seized, no criminal findings have been reported thus far.
Rabbi Kantor has been active in Thailand for over three decades, becoming a central figure for the Jewish community and Chabad's outreach to Jewish and Israeli visitors. Chabad Thailand stated, "Rabbi Kantor has served the Jewish community in Thailand for over 30 years, and Thailand is his and his family's home. We respect the Kingdom of Thailand, its laws, and its institutions, and are grateful for its hospitality over the years."
Chabad announced that they intend to challenge the decision through legal channels, expressing full confidence in the Thai judicial system. They also reassured Israelis and Jews in the country that Chabad centers continue to operate normally and welcome all visitors.
