CHIANG MAI, THAILAND – Security forces in northern Thailand tightened protection around Israeli and US-linked locations after recent rocket strikes in the Israel–Iran conflict.
Escalation of the conflict as trigger
According to Col Phumirat Dusdi, head of the ISOC office in Mae Hong Son, Israel and the United States carried out rocket attacks on targets in Iran on the morning of 28 February 2026 local time, further fuelling the confrontation. He said the situation was tense and the conflict could spread to other countries in the region.
Phumirat referred to a current warning from Israel’s National Security Council and called on residents of Pai to report suspicious observations without delay. The heightened vigilance focused on symbolic locations with links to Israel and the United States.
Focus on symbolic targets in the north
The ISOC chief explained that northern Thailand had several places connected to Israeli and US interests that were also heavily frequented by tourists. In particular, attention centred on the Chabad House in Pai district, Mae Hong Son province, a community and prayer centre for Orthodox Jews from Israel.
The Chabad House is located behind the local police station and was regarded as especially sensitive amid the regional tensions. Authorities saw these sites as potential targets and sought to increase their protection.
Facilities in Chiang Mai under observation
Besides Pai, Phumirat also named locations in Chiang Mai, including the US Consulate General and hotels belonging to international chains based in the United States. Officials called for close monitoring of these symbolic sites.
The aim was to prevent any security-related incidents linked to the strained situation in the Middle East. Security agencies coordinated surveillance measures around these facilities.
Appeal to residents and tourists in Pai
To enable preventive action, the ISOC chief asked the people of Pai to follow developments closely. He urged them to report irregularities immediately.
Information was to be passed directly to the ISOC Mae Hong Son office so that security forces could respond quickly and initiate preventive measures. Authorities sought cooperation from both locals and visiting tourists.
Clear warning from Israel’s security council
According to Phumirat, the Israeli National Security Council (NSC) issued a security notice on 28 February 2026 calling on Israelis abroad to exercise particular caution.
In the notice, the council stated that past experience suggested Iran might step up efforts to attack Israeli and Jewish targets overseas. It also warned that other terror groups or lone actors could be encouraged to harm Israelis.
Concrete recommendations for Israelis abroad
The security council advised Israelis to remain alert worldwide and to strictly follow travel advisories. It recommended checking the risk level of their destinations in advance.
Particular caution was urged at places associated with Israel or Judaism, such as Chabad Houses, synagogues, or Israeli and Jewish restaurants. The notice stated that in the event of looming danger, local security authorities should be informed immediately.
Increased security presence in Pai
According to Col Phumirat, units from several forces had already been deployed in Pai. Their task was to provide additional security, especially around the local Chabad House.
The reinforced presence was intended to maintain public order and deter potential attackers. Officials framed the move as a preventive measure in response to the international situation.
Thousands of Israeli holidaymakers in town
The Mae Hong Son immigration office estimated the number of Israeli tourists in Pai at no more than 3,000 to 4,000 people at present. The town is a popular stop on northern Thailand’s backpacker circuit.
According to officials, many Israeli travellers tended to shift their stays from northern regions like Pai to coastal areas in the south of Thailand as the hot season began. This seasonal movement was expected to continue despite the heightened security posture.