Jaffa Kindergarten Shuts Down Amid Criminal Threats and Rent Dispute

Approximately 35 children in a private kindergarten in Jaffa were left without childcare on Monday after parents were informed Sunday evening that the facility would not open due to alleged threats and pressure from several parties. The closure stems from multiple disputes, including one between the kindergarten operator and a known local criminal figure, and another between the operator and the property owner, who claims unpaid rent and demanded the premises be vacated.

In the dispute with the alleged criminal, the kindergarten operator filed a complaint claiming the individual, who is known to police, made threats. The operator is expected to be questioned by authorities. However, police reportedly possess footage showing the operator drawing a weapon during a confrontation. Both sides have filed mutual complaints.

Concurrently, the property owner's vehicle, parked where the kindergarten operates, was investigated for arson earlier in the week. One mother told i24NEWS that parents were given short notice about the closure, expressing concern about the situation, stating, "It's crazy that a kindergarten is closing because of a crime family." She added that the kindergarten has operated in Jaffa for 20 years, with over a decade at the current location, leaving parents without answers and children at home.

The kindergarten management has requested 48 hours from parents to find an alternative location for the children.