Holiday meal for hundreds of Israelis canceled at Chabad House on popular island - due to security officials' demand

The Rosh Hashanah meal planned for hundreds of Israelis at the Chabad House in Phuket, Thailand, was canceled this evening (Friday) following a demand by Israeli security officials. The cancellation came after a prolonged pro-Palestinian protest in the area, during which chants of "Free Palestine" were heard. A message sent to travelers registered for the event stated that the cancellation was due to security considerations and that the protesters could be violent. "Dear guests! Due to a demand by Israeli security officials, to our great regret we are canceling the event," it read. "Please do not approach the area, the protesters can be violent and it is dangerous." Chabad asked to update additional travelers and clarified that the remaining prayers and holiday meals, starting tomorrow, are expected to proceed as usual. The cancellation led to frustration and anger among many Israelis in the area, as hundreds of travelers had already prepared to attend. According to the message, the decision was made for security reasons and not due to a decision by the Chabad House itself. Security officials requested to prevent Israelis from approaching the protest area, fearing clashes or harm to them.