An Israeli-Moldovan rabbi residing in the United Arab Emirates has been reported missing, sparking concerns of a possible kidnapping. The individual, identified as Zvi Kogan, has not been seen since Thursday afternoon, prompting Israeli authorities to express apprehensions about his safety.
Israeli media sources, quoting security officials on condition of anonymity, suggested that Kogan might have been abducted. The Israeli prime minister's office confirmed the disappearance without providing further details.
The disappearance of Kogan occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions between Israel and Iran. Recent threats from Iran to retaliate against Israel following a military strike in October have raised alarm bells.
Emirati authorities have not yet responded to requests for comments on the matter. The incident has not been covered by state-run media in the UAE, and local Jewish representatives have refrained from making statements.
The Israeli government has launched an extensive investigation into the disappearance, citing concerns of a potential terrorist involvement. Israeli intelligence and security agencies are actively engaged in efforts to ensure Kogan's well-being and safety.
While the Israeli statement did not explicitly mention Iran, past incidents suggest Iranian intelligence operations in the UAE. Western officials have long suspected Iran of conducting espionage activities in the country, targeting Iranian expatriates.
The UAE officially recognized Israel in 2020, leading to increased interactions between the two nations. Israelis have been establishing businesses and visiting the UAE, facilitated by Emirati airlines serving as crucial links amid disruptions caused by regional conflicts.
Despite the growing Jewish community in the UAE, recent conflicts in the Middle East have stirred resentment among Emiratis and other residents. The situation remains fluid as authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding Kogan's disappearance.
Iranian state media has not acknowledged the incident, adding to the complexity of the situation. The disappearance of Zvi Kogan underscores the delicate geopolitical dynamics at play in the region.
