Thai security forces raided an illegal school operating on the popular tourist island of Koh Phangan on Friday, May 2, 2026, discovering 89 Israeli children aged 2 to 12 on the premises — nearly five times the number permitted by the school’s license.
Raid at Arki Kid School#
The operation took place at 12:30 PM at the Arki Kid School, which was officially licensed to operate only as a daycare center for 18 children aged 2 to 5. Instead, authorities found 89 Israeli children, along with 40 workers from Myanmar and 12 employees from various other countries.
The school was operated by an Iranian couple — Aydin Kishipur and Nadine Kishipur, both 45 — and a 61-year-old Thai woman, Prathomthip Yoo-in. All three were arrested and face multiple charges including operating an educational institution without a permit, employing foreigners without work permits, failing to report foreign employees, and violating child protection laws.
Growing Israeli Presence on Koh Phangan#
The raid follows complaints about foreigners operating businesses that may pose risks to national security. In recent years, Koh Phangan has become an increasingly popular destination for Israelis. According to estimates, approximately 2,500 Israelis have settled on the island, creating local tensions and repeated complaints about property acquisitions and businesses operating without proper legal compliance.
The Israeli presence on Thai islands, particularly Koh Phangan and neighboring Koh Samui, has grown significantly since the outbreak of the war in Gaza in October 2023. Many Israeli reservists and young adults have extended their stays, with some establishing permanent residences and businesses.
Broader Context#
This incident highlights the challenges Thai authorities face in regulating the growing expatriate communities on its islands. The presence of Iranian nationals managing facilities catering to Israeli children also raises security concerns, given the tense relations between Israel and Iran.
Thai-Israeli relations have generally been warm, with approximately 25,000 Thai workers in Israel and many Israelis visiting Thailand annually. However, incidents involving Israeli tourists and residents have occasionally strained local relations, including recent concerns about behavioral issues among war-weary reservists vacationing in Thailand.
The three suspects remain in custody as Thai authorities continue their investigation into what they describe as a threat to national security and child welfare.
Source: Israel Hayom
