Israeli Father Vanishes In Rough Seas After Saving His Son In Thailand

Extensive search operations are underway off the coast of Ko Phangan after an Israeli tourist disappeared Wednesday while trying to make it back to shore moments after rescuing his son from powerful currents. Drones, jet skis, and expanded patrols have been scanning the area since the afternoon, but no trace of him has been found. An Israeli team has also been dispatched to support local efforts to locate him.

In footage shared with Mako, an unknown frum Jew is seen assisting in rescue efforts.

According to reports, the family had been walking along Chaloeklam Beach in northern Ko Phangan at around 2:30 p.m. when their young son, who had apparently slipped into the water, was suddenly pulled away by a strong wave and dangerous current. The father immediately dove in and managed to bring his son back to safety. But as he attempted to swim in himself, the turbulent water dragged him away. He called out to his wife that he would try to reach the rocks near a nearby bridge, but another wave overpowered him.

Local authorities have continued the search through the night, deploying air and sea teams in difficult conditions.

His wife contacted the Israeli Embassy in Bangkok at once, prompting the mobilization of rescue units. By 5:30 p.m., Koh Phangan Tourist Police had intensified the operation: drones conducted aerial sweeps, jet skis combed the coastal waters, and ground patrols monitored the shoreline.

Despite nonstop efforts, search teams have found no sign of the missing man. The incident unfolded amid stormy seas in the Gulf of Thailand, where authorities had already issued warnings to swimmers due to hazardous conditions.

Mecl Insurance and Finance, which insures the missing Israeli, told Mako: “Upon receiving the report of the incident, Clal Insurance and Finance’s rescue company ‘Magen Search and Rescue’ immediately activated local emergency forces, and is working in full coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the consulate in Bangkok and the authorities in Thailand to locate the insured. At the same time, a search and rescue mission was sent from Israel, which includes searches at sea and in the air. We are accompanying the family and our team in ongoing and continuous contact with them.”