Authorities monitor peaceful protest against Rosh Hashanah event in Patong
About 400 people protested in Patong against a planned Jewish New Year celebration, while Phuket officials monitored the demonstration and upheld the right to peaceful assembly.
Phuket authorities monitored a peaceful protest by about 400 people in Patong on 11 September 2026 against a planned Rosh Hashanah celebration organised by Chabad Patong.
The demonstration took place as Jewish and Israeli visitors began arriving for a religious ceremony scheduled to start at 4pm. Police placed traffic cones on the opposite side of the street to prevent vehicles from parking in the area.
Siwatch Rawangkul, acting provincial governor of Phuket, joined district and municipal officials, Patong police and administrative officers to oversee the situation in Patong, Kathu district. Officials said the operation was intended to maintain order while protecting the demonstrators’ legal rights and minimising disruption to residents, businesses and tourists.
The protest was organised by Protect Phuket Land, which had petitioned provincial authorities to reconsider the event over concerns about public safety, the local community and tourism. Protesters said their objections concerned overall security rather than any particular religion or nationality.
Chabad Patong confirmed that it would proceed with the celebration despite the opposition. Following discussions with provincial authorities, organisers agreed to reduce the event’s scope and duration.
The demonstration remained peaceful, and participants had dispersed by 5.50pm without incident. Phuket authorities said they would maintain a neutral and lawful approach while protecting the rights of all parties.
