MAE HONG SON, Feb 26 (TNA) – Thailand’s Interior Ministry refuted claims of an Israeli “settlement” in Pai, Mae Hong Son province, labeling the reports “fake news” hurting tourism.
Social media claims alleged Israeli residents were causing disturbances, sparking local backlash. Deputy PM and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will today visit Pai with the Israeli Ambassador to address concerns.
Ahead of the visit, Trisuree Taisaranakul, secretary to the Interior Minister and Mae Hong Son Governor led a team to observe tourist activities, including tubing along the Pai River, a popular attraction and the Pai Walking Street.
Officials monitoring Pai’s tourist activities found no evidence of a “settlement,” but noted a slight tourism dip. They reinforced cultural respect guidelines and fined tourists for public marijuana use.
Israeli tourists and local businesses denied the “settlement” claims, attributing the controversy to a small group’s behavior. The Chabad House, also subject to rumors, confirmed normal operations. -819 (TNA)