Rabbi Zvi Kogan, 28, who represented the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, met an untimely and tragic end after being found murdered under harrowing circumstances in the United Arab Emirates. The Israeli authorities have labeled this event as terrorism, igniting outrage across not only the local community but globally, as the investigation led by Emirati officials progresses.
Kogan, who held dual citizenship from Israel and Moldova, went missing on November 21, 2024, sparking international concern. His last known whereabouts were linked to Dubai, where he had been actively involved in promoting Jewish life and culture as part of Chabad’s mission. His body was eventually discovered early Sunday morning by Emirati authorities. Kogan had been abducted shortly before his murder, on Thursday afternoon. The apparent brutality of the act has led Israeli officials to label it as “heinous” and “antisemitic,” underscoring the concerning rise of antisemitic sentiments globally.
Upon the discovery of Kogan’s body, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated, “We will act with all means to seek justice with the criminals responsible for his death.” The urgency of the investigation has escalated with the announcement from the UAE’s Ministry of Interior, which disclosed the arrest of three suspects alleged to be involved. While the names and details of these individuals remain undisclosed, Emirati officials have pledged to handle the situation with utmost seriousness to maintain societal stability.
U.S. National Security Council spokesperson Sean Savett condemned what he termed as “a horrific crime against peace and tolerance,” voicing solidarity with Kogan’s family along with the broader Jewish community. He reassured support from the U.S. as they collaborate with the Israeli and Emirati authorities throughout the investigation.
The events surrounding the murder are particularly alarming considering the UAE's attempts to establish itself as a hub for multiculturalism and tolerance since the normalization of ties with Israel through the 2020 Abraham Accords. Kogan’s works included facilitating kosher food availability and the establishment of educational programs. Coupled with this tragedy, the UAE has faced growing unrest due to regional wars, primarily the Israel-Gaza conflict which has stoked tensions across the Middle East.
Following Kogan's death, both Israeli and Jewish leaders internationally have expressed grief and outrage. Local Jewish communities, many of whom have flourished since the Abraham Accords, are now under increased scrutiny and fear for their safety. Kogan’s work was not only significant for the Jewish community of the UAE, but also served as a bridge promoting interfaith solutions and dialogue.
The Rimon Market, the kosher grocery store managed by Kogan, has faced protests and vandalism since the outbreak of hostilities earlier this year. Following Kogan's disappearance, numerous community members shared their disbelief over the worsening climate against Jewish life and the continued hostilities faced by Kogan himself and his family. Kogan’s wife, Rivky, who is also located within the UAE, faces this loss alongside Kogan's extended family connected to previous tragedies involving the Jewish diaspora.
The socio-political climate throughout the region remains fraught. Protests and political actions against Israel have intensified since Hamas’s attack on October 7, 2023. Many Emiratis have publicly voiced their discontent over what they perceive to be detrimental actions against the Palestinian people, resulting perpetuating cycles of violence and retaliation across communities.
This horrific incident has also raised awareness of broader security concerns raised by Israelis about traveling to the region. Israeli authorities have once again issued travel warnings, urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel and to stay within secure areas. This follows heightened fears related to antisemitic acts fuelled by political and religious conflicts.
Despite the mourning against Kogan’s murder, it remains poignant to recognize the importance of coexistence and community building efforts undertaken throughout these challenging times. Jewish leaders have called for unity and resilience, emphasizing the need for diligence against hate and violence.
Coexistence greatly shapes and influences the global Jewish experience, especially for communities like Chabad, which actively engages not just with Jews, but seeks interfaith relations to promote peaceful interactions among diverse peoples. Rabbi Zvi Kogan's tragic death is not only seen as the loss of one individual but as an attack against the communal efforts to bridge differences and create acceptance.
The international community watches closely as investigations play out, and calls for comprehensive justice resonate throughout global platforms. It remains to be seen how this event will affect the previously established diplomatic ties between Israel and the UAE and the general arc of interaction among various faith groups within this volatile region.
With the body of Rabbi Kogan set to be flown back to Israel for burial, the emotional aftermath continues to ripple out, fostering discussions about safety, acceptance, and communal responsibility. The Jewish community worldwide feels this loss palpably, and advocates for preventive measures to shield their communities from the shadows of violence, hate, and terror.
Rabbi Zvi Kogan leaves behind not only memories but also instills urgency to re-evaluate the social fabrics binding diverse communities together. His role played within the Chabad movement was significant, his vision of acceptance and dialogue as he moved forward with initiatives for the Jewish people remains. The hope is for those left bereaved to take up his mantle, promoting a spirit of peace and resilience moving forward.
