The tragic murder of Rabbi Tzvi Kogan in the United Arab Emirates has sent shockwaves through communities in Israel and abroad. Kogan, a member of the Chabad Hasidic movement, was reported missing on 21 November 2024, and his body was discovered on 24 November. Israeli officials have called the incident a heinous act of anti-Semitic terrorism, calling for justice as investigations unfold.
Details Surrounding the Murder
Kogan, a Moldovan passport holder and a resident of the UAE, had been working to support Jewish life within the country. His body was found in Al Ain, though the specific location of his death remains unclear. Chabad representatives expressed their devastation, stating that he was “murdered by terrorists.”
Reactions from Israeli Officials
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the murder, calling it a “heinous anti-Semitic terrorist act.”
- Israeli President Isaac Herzog stated that this act would not deter the growth of Jewish communities in the UAE.
- Defence Minister Israel Katz described the killing as “cowardly” and emphasized the need for accountability.
UAE’s Response and Arrests
UAE authorities announced the arrest of three suspects connected to the murder, highlighting their commitment to maintain societal stability. According to the Emirati Interior Ministry, they will act decisively against any attempts that threaten this stability. Notably, the UAE has established itself as a haven of tolerance and safety among diverse expatriate communities.
Impact on the Jewish Community
The murder of Rabbi Kogan comes amid increasing tensions following the recent Israel-Hamas conflict, which started with an attack by Hamas on Israeli territories on 7 October 2023. Many members of the Israeli and Jewish expat community in the UAE are reportedly in shock, with informal synagogues in Dubai closing due to security concerns.
Continued Jewish Presence in the UAE
Despite these unsettling events, the Jewish community in the UAE numbers in the thousands and has been actively engaging in strengthening ties and investments in the region since the historic Abraham Accords in 2020. Former Israeli Druze politician Ayoob Kara expressed confidence that these relationships would continue to prosper, even in light of recent tragedies.
For the time being, Israeli authorities have advised citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to the UAE, urging those already there to remain in secure areas and limit movement.