The United Arab Emirates has confirmed the death of Rabbi Zvi Hakohen Kogan, a Moldovan-Israeli dual national who disappeared on November 21. Israeli authorities have characterized his killing as an antisemitic terrorist attack, blaming an Iranian plot involving Uzbek operatives.
In a joint statement on November 24, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office and Foreign Affairs Ministry condemned the murder. They pledged to pursue justice for Kogan’s death, describing it as “a criminal antisemitic terrorist attack.” The Israeli mission in Abu Dhabi has provided support to Kogan’s family throughout the investigation.
The joint inquiry by Mossad and UAE authorities uncovered critical details about the case. Kogan’s vehicle was discovered roughly 90 minutes from Dubai, and investigators believe three Uzbek nationals were involved. These suspects reportedly fled to Turkey, complicating efforts to apprehend them. Intelligence reports indicate Kogan may have been under Iranian surveillance prior to his disappearance.
The investigation faced initial delays because Kogan entered the UAE using a Moldovan passport. This led authorities to involve the Moldovan embassy before Israeli officials became involved. Moldovan state media has not publicly addressed the incident or the death of their citizen.
Iranian state media acknowledged the killing but avoided addressing allegations of Tehran’s involvement. In a related interview, Iranian official Ali Larijani commented on tensions with Israel, emphasizing the country’s careful monitoring of the situation. He hinted at potential retaliation against Israel for prior strikes in October.
In an unusual twist, reports revealed an attempt to lure Israeli officials to a fake Hanukkah event in New York, allegedly connected to Kogan’s Chabad movement. The invitations, generated using AI, were part of an apparent espionage effort. Shin Bet, Israel’s security agency, uncovered that the phone number linked to the invitations had been registered in the United States only months earlier.
Kogan’s murder has deeply affected the Jewish community in the UAE. The Board of Jewish Deputies described his death as a “despicable act,” mourning the loss of a leader who selflessly served his community.
This incident highlights vulnerabilities within the Jewish community in the UAE, raising concerns about the region’s stability amidst ongoing Middle East conflicts and the Abraham Accords' future.
Global
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