Anutin revokes Thai citizenship of Rabbi Kantor

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul signed an order on Wednesday, October 28, stripping Rabbi Yosef Chaim Kantor of his Thai citizenship. The decree was issued by the Interior Ministry, where Anutin also serves as minister. This action marks the latest escalation in a series of government measures targeting Chabad institutions across the country.

The official order cites Section 19(2) of Thailand's Nationality Act. That provision addresses conduct that threatens national security, the economy, society, or public morality. The document states that Kantor knew the naturalization requirements when he applied. It warns that failing to act promptly could cause serious harm to the public interest.

The Justice Ministry investigation found that Kantor used his American citizenship on 16 occasions after becoming a naturalized Thai citizen in 2013. The most recent entry was on January 26 of this year. The Interior Ministry maintains these actions violated the conditions of his Thai citizenship. The order does not accuse Kantor of the financial offenses currently under investigation.

This decision follows raids in early October by Thailand's Department of Special Investigation, police, and tax authorities. Agents searched the Chabad Foundation, Gan Chabad offices, and the Jewish Association of Thailand. They also inspected the historic Beit Elisheva Synagogue complex in Bangkok, which is undergoing reconstruction. Investigators seized documents and reviewed business records. They reportedly identified foreign workers without valid permits and examined the registration of more than 60 companies at a single address.

Authorities suspect that Thai nominees were used to bypass restrictions on foreign ownership of businesses and real estate. The probes also examine funding sources and donations. Meanwhile, protests have formed against the Chabad House in Patong, Phuket. Demonstrators have used anti-Israel and antisemitic slogans. These claims concern land ownership and business activities that have not yet been substantiated.

Anutin defended the revocation in parliament. He stated that everything was done according to the law. He said individuals granted Thai citizenship must comply with naturalization requirements. He referred questions about further proceedings to the relevant authorities. Kantor has not yet issued an official response. Chabad Thailand previously said it was cooperating with the investigations and had nothing to hide.

Kantor arrived in Thailand in 1993. He has served as a leading figure in religious and community activities for Jews and Israelis throughout the country for more than three decades. Members of Thailand's Jewish community have expressed concern over the developments. They view the revocation as another sign of growing pressure on Jewish and Israeli institutions in the country.