Rabbi Zvi Kogan, known as a fervent player within the Chabad community based out of Abu Dhabi, has gone missing under alarming circumstances since Thursday, November 21. His disappearance has sparked swift investigations from both Israeli and Emirati authorities, with media outlets hinting at suspicions of a kidnapping potentially linked to Iranian intelligence operations.
The unsettling news has sent waves of concern across the Jewish community and the broader public, prompting urgent action from intelligence operatives. Zvi Kogan, who holds dual Israeli and Moldovan citizenship, last communicated with his family on Wednesday, just before his vanishing act. His family reported him missing after he failed to arrive at scheduled meetings.
Local reports indicated his vehicle was discovered abandoned approximately 150 kilometers from Abu Dhabi. Following the troubling find, the Prime Minister’s Office quickly acknowledged the incident, stating, "Rabbi Kogan has been missing since Thursday afternoon" and signaled the start of extensive inquiries by both Mossad and Emirati security forces.
While details surrounding his disappearance remain murky, speculation has begun to arise. Concerns are mounting, as Channel 12 News conveys apprehensions about Rabbi Kogan possibly being harmed or killed. There are fears voiced within Israel, particularly about the potential of Kogan having fallen prey to terror groups tied to Iran, with the report adding, "There is concern Rabbi Kogan was not only kidnapped but also murdered, with his captors slipping out of the country." According to Moriah Ashraf, who reported for Kan News, Rabbi Kogan was likely targeted by hostile factions, emphasizing the need for immediate action from authorities.
The UAE government has publicly called for calm amid the rising tensions and asked for reliance on verified information concerning the case. An official statement stressed, "We continue searching for Tzvi Kogan… We urge everyone to depend on facts from credible sources and to refrain from spreading unfounded rumors."
Rabbi Kogan, who has established himself as the backbone of Jewish life for many expatriates living and working within the UAE, has ties deeply rooted within the Chabad organization. He is married to the niece of Rabbi Gabi Holtzberg, who was infamously murdered during the Mumbai terror attacks back in 2008. His prominence within the community resonates with countless Jewish families who rely on his kindness and service.
The climate of anxiety around his disappearance draws connections to previous experiences, with apprehensions echoing past Iranian-operated kidnappings. Reports from Israeli intelligence suggest similarities between Kogan's situation and the apprehension of Jamshid Sharmahd, who was captured under suspicious circumstances only to later face execution.
Local Jewish leaders have expressed their shock and dismay, illustrating the emotional weight his absence has laid on families across the region. His family has been anxiously awaiting updates, participating actively by urging prayers within the community for Kogan's safe return. The plea is also echoed amid rising speculation—"Please say Tehillim for the immediate and safe return of Tzvi Hakohen ben Ettel."
Efforts from law enforcement have deemed every method necessary to track Kogan’s whereabouts. A Mossad team is reportedly set to travel to Dubai to assist with the investigation. The Israeli security forces are understood to be working round the clock, monitoring potential leads and coordinating efforts with local authorities.
The UAE has faced scrutiny over its response to Kogan’s case. While Emirati security sources mentioned the commencement of search operations, reports indicated discontent over the speed and effectiveness of the approach. Complaints emerged pertaining to the lack of prompt action after initial reports about his disappearance were filed; it appears actions commenced only after several contacts with Israeli officials.
Adding to the urgency of the matter, indications show there may have been previous threats against Israelis traveling within the UAE. The Israeli intelligence firm TAM-C issued warnings about potential aggressive activities targeting Israeli citizens after receiving intelligence cluing them to watch out for unwelcome intentions.
Despite the developments during the investigation, authorities are urging restraint. The government of the UAE remains steadfast, promising cooperation and heightened vigilance, alongside reaffirmations of friendship toward the Israeli people. "We are alarmed by the timing of events, especially considering some tensions recently arising due to geopolitical issues involving Israel, Iran, and the region as a whole," stated Majed Al Mansoori, the Director of Foreign Nationals Affairs.
This case, rekindling memories of the tragic loss of Rabbi Gabi Holtzberg and his wife during a terror attack nearly two decades ago, has ignited fears throughout the community. Support for Kogan’s family and the call for safe practices among Jews within the region are now more pressing than ever.
The anxious wait for information continues, as the people linked to Rabbi Kogan grapple with uncertainty about his fate. With both Israeli and Emirati officials synchronously conducting investigations with the fullest intentions of resolving this crisis, hope lingers for a positive outcome. Friends, family, and the community rally around the cries for prayer and the belief for Kogan’s return.
Rabbi Kogan’s significant contributions to the UAE Jewish community can't be overstated; he remains not only a cherished figure within the Emirati populace but emblematic of the unyielding spirit of Jewish continuity and resilience amid uncertainties.
The entire situation remains fluid, with frequent updates expected as both agencies work tirelessly to unravel the truth behind the troubling disappearance of Rabbi Zvi Kogan. The outcome hinges upon continued efforts for insight, coordinated investigations, and the prayers of many hoping for his safe return.
