The disappearance of Rabbi Zvi Kogan in Abu Dhabi has triggered an international security alert and a wave of community support, as fears of a potential terrorist plot emerge.
At a Glance
- Rabbi Zvi Kogan, a Chabad emissary in Abu Dhabi, has been missing since Thursday
- Israeli security services fear he may have been kidnapped or murdered
- Mossad and UAE authorities have launched an extensive investigation
- The case has sparked international concern and calls for prayer from the Chabad community
- Israel’s National Security Council advises against non-essential travel to the UAE
Disappearance Raises Alarm
The sudden disappearance of Rabbi Zvi Kogan, a prominent Chabad representative and dual Moldovan-Israeli citizen, has sent shockwaves through international security circles and Jewish communities worldwide. Kogan, who has been serving as an emissary to Abu Dhabi’s Chabad chapter since 2020, was last seen on Thursday, prompting fears of a possible kidnapping or worse.
“Rabbi Zvi Kogan, an emissary to Abu Dhabi’s Chabad chapter, has been missing since Thursday, and Israel’s security services reportedly fear he was kidnapped or murdered, it emerged Saturday,” Ynet reported.
The case has quickly escalated to the highest levels of Israeli security, with the Prime Minister’s Office confirming Kogan’s disappearance and treating it as a suspected act of terrorism. This development has led to a flurry of activity among intelligence agencies and law enforcement bodies in both Israel and the United Arab Emirates.
International Investigation Underway
In response to the alarming situation, Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency and Emirati authorities have launched an extensive investigation. The UAE’s interior ministry has stated that it is “implementing extensive measures in its search for” the missing rabbi, demonstrating the seriousness with which local authorities are treating the case.
“Since his disappearance, and given information indicating that this is a terrorist incident, an active investigation has been going on in the country,” the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office said.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Kogan’s car was found abandoned in Al Ain, a city on the UAE-Oman border. There are suspicions of an assault by Uzbek citizens who may have fled to Turkey, though these reports remain unconfirmed. The involvement of Iranian intelligence has also been suggested by some security officials, highlighting the potential geopolitical implications of the case.
Community Response and Security Concerns
The disappearance of Rabbi Kogan has prompted a strong response from the global Chabad community. Calls for prayer and solidarity have spread rapidly, with many expressing hope for his safe return. The incident has also reignited discussions about the safety of Jewish individuals in the region, despite the improved relations between Israel and the UAE following the Abraham Accords in 2020.
We are deeply concerned about the disappearance of Rabbi Zvi Kogan in the UAE, amid troubling reports of potential Iranian regime-sponsored terrorism.
We pray for his safe return.https://t.co/HgHrDDeV2Z
— European Jewish Congress (@eurojewcong) November 24, 2024
In light of the current situation, Israel’s National Security Council has advised against non-essential travel to the UAE. This warning underscores the heightened state of alert and the potential risks faced by Israelis and Jews in the region, particularly given the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran.
Diplomatic Efforts and Ongoing Search
The disappearance of Rabbi Kogan has sparked intense diplomatic activity. UAE officials, including Majed Al Mansoori, have been in contact with Kogan’s family and the Moldovan Embassy, emphasizing the UAE’s commitment to resolving the case.
“His Excellency underscored that the Ministry of Interior (MoI) is implementing extensive measures in its search for the missing person, affirming that the relevant authorities in the UAE have initiated the search operations and investigations immediately following the receipt of the report,” Majed Al Mansoori stated.
As the search continues, the international community watches closely – and the West, at least, hopes he is found safe.
