Israeli authorities have announced that a rabbi reported missing in the United Arab Emirates has been murdered, pledging to pursue those responsible for the crime.
The killing of Zvi Kogan has been classified as a criminal act rooted in antisemitic terrorism. Following the discovery of the rabbi’s body on Sunday, the Prime Minister’s office announced that the State of Israel would utilize all available resources to ensure that those responsible for his death are brought to justice.
Rabbi Kogan, representing the orthodox Jewish organization Chabad, has been unaccounted for in Dubai since Thursday, prompting an investigation by both the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad and authorities in the UAE.
Israeli officials have maintained communication with the family of the Israeli-Moldovan national who has been reported missing, according to the statement from Israeli authorities.
The discovery of Zvi Kogan’s body follows the earlier finding of his abandoned vehicle, located an hour’s drive from his residence.
President Isaac Herzog of Israel described the murder as “a vile, antisemitic attack.”
Chabad is a religious organization dedicated to fostering connections with non-affiliated and secular Jews, as well as individuals from other branches of Judaism. The UAE branch of the organization reportedly supports thousands of Jewish visitors and residents, as stated on its official website.
Rabbi Kogan, 28, collaborated with fellow Chabad emissaries to “establish and expand Jewish life in the Emirates,” according to the organization. He oversaw operations at a kosher supermarket located in Dubai.
The Israeli government’s travel advisory has issued a warning to citizens, advising them to limit travel to the UAE to “essential reasons.” Officials cite “terrorist activity” in the region as a significant threat to Israelis who may be residing in or visiting the country.
Abu Dhabi has officially established diplomatic relations with Israel through the Abraham Accords, an agreement facilitated by the United States.
The relationship has been sustained throughout the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.
