The case of Rabbi Zvi Kogan
Zvi Kogan, an Israeli-Moldovan rabbi, was found dead in the United Arab Emirates, where he had lived since 2020 after Israel normalized relations with the Gulf state. Israeli authorities believe it to be an act of antisemitic terrorism and have vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Channel 12 News reported that Kogan was related to Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg, who was killed in the 2008 terrorist attack on the Nariman Chabad House in Mumbai.
Herzog: ‘A vile attack on the Jewish people’
Israeli President Isaac Herzog described the murder as a “vile antisemitic attack,” emphasizing how such acts highlight the threats faced by the Jewish people.
Herzog expressed gratitude for the swift action of the UAE authorities and voiced confidence in their efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice. “We will not stop fostering the Jewish community in the UAE and beyond,” Herzog stated.
Katz: ‘Justice will prevail’
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz condemned the incident as a “cowardly and despicable act of antisemitic terrorism.” Katz affirmed Israel’s commitment to ensuring the criminals responsible face justice.
“We will not remain silent,” he declared.
Travel to the UAE: heightened risks
Israel’s National Security Council renewed its travel warning for the UAE, citing threats against Israeli and Jewish individuals in the region.
Recommendations include:
- Avoid businesses and gatherings linked to Israeli or Jewish communities.
- Stay vigilant in public places.
- Do not display Israeli symbols publicly.
- Limit social media activity to ensure personal safety.
