The Prime Minister's Office has confirmed that Rabbi Zvi Kogan, a Chabad emissary in Abu Dhabi, has disappeared in the United Arab Emirates, with the case being treated as a potential terror incident. The Mossad intelligence agency is leading the investigation, with murder and kidnapping being suspected.
According to Israeli security officials, Rabbi Kogan, who supervises Kosher kitchens in the UAE, was last seen on Thursday. Sources familiar with the investigation indicate that Israeli intelligence had information suggesting Iranian operatives were tracking his movements prior to his disappearance.
The Prime Minister's Office, in conjunction with the Mossad and National Security Council, released a statement confirming the Rabbi's disappearance: "Since his disappearance, and based on intelligence indicating a potential terror incident, an intensive investigation has been launched in the country. Israeli intelligence and security agencies are working tirelessly to ensure his safety."
Travel Advisory in Effect: The National Security Council maintains a Level 3 (medium threat) travel warning for the UAE.
A high-level UAE source has expressed deep concern over the mysterious disappearance of Rabbi Zvi Kogan, speaking exclusively to N12 news on condition of anonymity.
"There is profound shock and anger throughout our security establishment," the source said, noting that the incident has shattered years of relative calm in the Emirates. "We haven't seen any significant security or nationalist incidents of this nature for several years."
Government officials are working around the clock to resolve the case, with both senior religious figures and state authorities actively involved in the investigation. The source emphasized that UAE leadership is hoping for a breakthrough that could lead to positive developments in the case.
The Times of Israel contributed to this article.