Israeli-Moldovan Rabbi Goes Missing in UAE Amid Terrorist Suspicions
Tzvi Kogan, an Israeli-Moldovan citizen and a Chabad rabbi serving the Jewish community in the United Arab Emirates, has been abducted by terrorists believed to be operating under the guidance of Iran. The Ministry of Prime Minister, in collaboration with the Mossad Intelligence Agency and the National Security Council, issued an update regarding the disturbing incident today.
Investigation Launched in Response to Disappearance
Kogan has been missing since Thursday, November 21st, 2024. According to the statement from the Israeli authorities, the disappearance is suspected to be related to a terror attack, prompting a comprehensive investigation within the UAE. Israeli intelligence and security agencies are working tirelessly to ensure Kogan’s safety and security.
National Security Advisory for the UAE
The National Security Council has previously issued a level 3 travel warning (medium threat) for the UAE, advising against non-essential travel to the region. Travelers and residents are urged to exercise heightened caution while in the country.
Unanswered Appointments and Wife’s Alarm
Kogan was scheduled for several appointments on the day of his disappearance but failed to attend them. His wife, concerned after not hearing from him, reached out to the Chabad House security team. The security team then contacted local authorities, and the case was immediately reported to Israeli officials.
UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs Responds
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that it is closely monitoring the case and is in continuous contact with Kogan’s family to provide them with necessary support. Majed Al Mansouri, the director of the Foreign Nationals Department, emphasized that the Ministry of Interior is taking extensive steps to locate the missing individual, with investigations launched as soon as the report was received.
The Ministry has also been coordinating with the Moldovan Embassy in Abu Dhabi regarding the case and has called on the public to obtain information from official sources only.
Prayers and Support from Chabad Yeshiva Students
In a special message to the students of the Chabad Yeshiva in Tel Aviv, a call was made to pray for the safe return of Rabbi Tzvi Kogan. The yeshiva administration shared a letter urging everyone to add prayers and good deeds for the missing rabbi, who has been reported missing under concerning circumstances in the UAE. The letter reads:
“Please add in your prayers and good deeds for the merit of our graduate, Rabbi Tzvi Cohen ben Atal Kogan, who has gone missing in the UAE, and there are concerns regarding his abduction. ‘And the Almighty, the great, does not reject the prayers of many.'”
The yeshiva administration expressed hope for positive news soon.
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