Investigation Underway in UAE Following Disappearance of Rabbi Zvi Kogan

Zvi Kogan, an Israeli-Moldovan Rabbi and Chabad envoy, has gone missing in the UAE, prompting an investigation by Mossad, which suspects terrorist involvement. Both Israeli and UAE authorities are actively searching for Kogan. The case highlights ongoing security concerns related to Israeli travelers in the UAE amid the Hamas-Israel conflict.

The Israeli government is currently investigating the disappearance of Zvi Kogan, an Israeli-Moldovan dual national and Chabad envoy, who went missing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) last Thursday. Following Kogan’s disappearance, Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad, launched an active inquiry, suspecting the involvement of a terrorist incident. Concurrently, local authorities in the UAE are conducting their own search efforts to locate Kogan. The urgency of this matter has been highlighted by statements from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, which confirmed that security and intelligence organizations are diligently working on the case, prioritizing Kogan’s safety and wellbeing.

The UAE’s state media has reported that the interior ministry is leading the search operations pertaining to Kogan’s disappearance, signifying a collaborative effort between both nations in addressing the issue. Since the establishment of formal ties between Israel and the UAE through the Abraham Accords, the two countries have maintained diplomatic relations, even in the face of regional turmoil exemplified by the conflict involving Israel and Hamas in Gaza. However, the Israeli government has issued travel advisories cautioning citizens against non-essential travel to the UAE due to potential terrorist activities that may pose risks to Israeli citizens visiting or residing in the country.

The investigation into Zvi Kogan’s disappearance emerges within the context of the recently established bilateral ties between Israel and the UAE, formalized by the Abraham Accords. This agreement, brokered by the United States, marked a significant diplomatic shift in the region. Despite the diplomatic relationship, security concerns remain prevalent, particularly in light of ongoing tensions exemplified by the Israel-Hamas conflict. The situation has led the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs to issue warnings about potential risks associated with travel to the UAE, particularly focusing on concerns of terrorist activities. In previous instances, Israeli citizens have been advised to approach travel to the UAE with caution.

The ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Rabbi Zvi Kogan underscores the complexities of security operations within the framework of international relations between Israel and the UAE. Mossad’s involvement reflects the urgency and seriousness with which Israeli authorities regard Kogan’s safety. As investigations develop, both nations continue to navigate their cooperative diplomatic ties while addressing the inherent risks that may threaten their citizens. Furthermore, the situation serves as a critical reminder of the geopolitical tensions affecting regional stability.

Original Source: www.bbc.com