Thailand Revokes Citizenship of Chief Rabbi Yosef Chaim Kantor
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Thailand's Prime Minister has revoked the Thai citizenship of Rabbi Yosef Chaim Kantor, the country's chief rabbi, for repeatedly using his U.S. passport after becoming a Thai citizen in 2013. The decision, based on a violation of naturalization terms, also cited potential harm to national security. This action occurs amidst investigations and raids on Jewish community sites in Thailand, raising concerns of a targeted campaign against Israelis. Chabad Thailand stated they respect the law and are pursuing legal avenues, while continuing their community services.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Thailand's Prime Minister revoked Chief Rabbi Yosef Chaim Kantor's citizenship for using his U.S. passport 16 times.
- The revocation is based on violating naturalization terms after becoming a Thai citizen in 2013.
- The order cited potential harm to national security, economy, and society as reasons.
- The move follows investigations and raids on Jewish sites and Chabad houses in Thailand.
- Chabad Thailand expressed regret but affirmed respect for Thai law and continued operations.
Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has signed an order revoking the Thai citizenship of Rabbi Yosef Chaim Kantor, the leader of Chabad in the country and the chief rabbi of the Jewish community. The primary reason cited is Rabbi Kantor's use of his American passport 16 times after becoming a Thai citizen in 2013. According to the Ministry of Interior, the Special Investigation Department (DSI) identified 16 instances where Kantor entered and exited Australia using his U.S. passport, with the last recorded on January 26 of this year.
The ministry stated that Kantor was aware of the naturalization conditions when he applied but continued to use his previous citizenship, which is considered a violation of the terms under Thai law. The order also noted that his conduct could potentially harm national security, the economy, and society. The revocation was enacted under Section 19, subsection (2) of the Thai Nationality Act (1965), which allows for the stripping of citizenship obtained through naturalization if continued use of prior citizenship is discovered.
Rabbi Kantor, a prominent figure in the Thai Jewish community and a leader of Chabad, arrived in Bangkok in 1993 and has led Chabad Thailand since then. He received Thai citizenship in April 2013. This action follows recent raids by Thai authorities on various locations as part of an investigation into companies, assets, and financial transactions, though no criminal findings have been reported yet. Raids were also conducted on Chabad houses across the country, and authorities demanded the removal of Jewish bodies from a Jewish cemetery whose license had expired.
These combined events have raised suspicions of an organized campaign against Israelis and their presence in Thailand. Chabad Thailand responded by stating their respect for the kingdom, its laws, and institutions, expressing gratitude for its hospitality. They acknowledged the decision is regrettable and is being addressed through legal channels, with full trust in the Thai system. Chabad houses in Thailand continue to operate normally and welcome all Jews and Israelis.
Mentioned
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Centre 4Right 2Haredi 3Other 1
Not the same event — other stories that share this one’s people, places, or theme: background, reactions, and follow-ups.
