Israeli-Moldovan citizen missing in UAE, suspected terror incident under investigation

Israeli officials have indicated that the disappearance may be linked to “a terrorist incident,” but no further details have been provided.

Chabad’s global headquarters, based in the United States, confirmed Kogan’s role as a rabbi serving the group in the UAE and acknowledged his disappearance. The organisation, which provides religious and social support to Jewish communities worldwide, has a significant presence in the Gulf region.

The UAE’s state news agency reported that the interior ministry is conducting a search and investigation but did not reference Kogan’s Israeli citizenship. Chabad’s UAE branch declined to comment on the matter, as reported by Reuters.

The UAE established formal diplomatic relations with Israel in 2020 under the US-brokered Abraham Accords, becoming the most prominent Arab state in decades to normalise ties. Despite tensions arising from the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, the UAE has maintained its relationship with Israel.

Chabad in the UAE plays a vital role in supporting Jewish residents and visitors, offering services to the growing Jewish community across the Gulf, according to its official website.

(with inputs from Reuters)