Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have arrested three individuals linked to the death of Rabbi Zvi Kogan, an Israeli citizen, who Israel claims was killed in an “antisemitic act of terror.”
Kogan, who also held Moldovan citizenship and was associated with Chabad, a Hasidic Jewish movement, had been missing since Thursday afternoon. According to the Chabad official website, he was abducted from Dubai, one of the UAE’s emirates.
On Sunday, the UAE interior ministry confirmed that Kogan’s body had been found, and three people were arrested in connection to his death. The identities and affiliations of the suspects have not been disclosed, but authorities stated that legal procedures are underway, promising to release more details after the investigation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the murder, asserting that Israel will use all resources to bring those responsible to justice. Offering his “heartfelt condolences” to Kogan’s family, Netanyahu labeled the killing as a “heinous, antisemitic act of terror.” Israeli officials have also updated travel advisories for nationals, urging against non-essential travel and recommending that visitors minimize movement and stay in secure locations.
Kogan was instrumental in expanding the Jewish community in the UAE, establishing the region’s first Jewish education center and facilitating access to kosher food. His wife, Rivky, is a U.S. national related to Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg, who was murdered in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.
The White House condemned Kogan’s murder as “a horrific crime against peace, tolerance, and coexistence,” affirming that the U.S. is working closely with Israeli and UAE authorities and offering support.
The UAE’s Jewish community is small but growing, and last year, the Gulf nation opened its first purpose-built synagogue, the “Abrahamic Family House,” which also features a mosque and church.
Recent events have affected the visibility of Israelis and Jews in the UAE since the attacks on October 7, with reports indicating that informal synagogues in Dubai have closed due to heightened security concerns.
Credit: CNN
