Zvi Kogan, an Israeli-Moldovan rabbi, has been confirmed dead after going missing in the UAE, with Israeli officials attributing his death to a violent anti-Semitic attack. The Israeli government vows to bring his killers to justice, while the Emirati authorities confirm they have initiated search efforts. Kogan’s case occurs amidst rising tensions in the region, particularly involving Iran.
The Israeli government has confirmed that Zvi Kogan, an Israeli-Moldovan rabbi who disappeared in the United Arab Emirates, was killed in a suspected anti-Semitic terror attack. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office characterized the incident as a “heinous” act and pledged to pursue justice against those responsible for Kogan’s death. His wife, Rivky Kogan, is a U.S. citizen and niece of a rabbi killed during the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Kogan was last seen in Dubai and managed a local Kosher grocery store, which has since been closed. While the Emirati government has not acknowledged Kogan’s Israeli citizenship, it confirmed his disappearance and stated that search and investigation operations were initiated.
Zvi Kogan’s disappearance comes against a backdrop of heightened tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Iran, following recent conflicts. The UAE, known for its progressive relations with Israel since normalizing ties in 2020, has become a home for a burgeoning Jewish community, including synagogues and businesses catering to kosher food. However, anti-Israeli sentiments amid ongoing regional conflicts have raised concerns about the safety of Israeli nationals in the region, especially in light of past Iranian intelligence activities in the UAE.
The tragic case of Rabbi Zvi Kogan highlights the ongoing risks faced by individuals associated with Israel in regions with rising anti-Semitic sentiments. As Israel seeks to hold those responsible for Kogan’s death accountable, the broader implications on Israeli-UAE relations and the safety of its citizens abroad remain pressing issues. The international community continues to watch closely as developments unfold.
Original Source: www.armidaleexpress.com.au
