Shockwaves: Rabbi Zvi Kogan Found Dead in UAE—Israel Slams ‘Heinous Antisemitic Terror

The body of Rabbi Zvi Kogan, a prominent figure in the Jewish community in the United Arab Emirates, was discovered on Sunday, marking the tragic end to a search that began after he went missing. Israel has condemned the killing as a “heinous antisemitic terror incident,” while the UAE has confirmed the arrest of three suspects connected to the case.

Rabbi Kogan, a dual Israeli-Moldovan citizen, was a former member of the Israel Defense Forces’ Givati Brigade and a key figure in expanding Jewish life in the UAE. He worked alongside Chabad representatives in the region, helping to establish Jewish education centers and ensuring the availability of kosher food. He also managed a kosher supermarket in Dubai.

Kogan’s contributions were instrumental in fostering a Jewish community in the UAE following the 2020 Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and the UAE. He was part of the Chabad chapter in Abu Dhabi and worked closely with Rabbi Levi Duchman, the Rabbi of the United Arab Emirates.

Chabad Lubavitch expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting Kogan’s dedication to promoting peace and coexistence. “Among his many milestones was the founding of the first Jewish education center in the Gulf,” the group said in a statement.

A Tragic End

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to pursue justice, stating, “Israel will act with all means to seek justice with the criminals responsible for his death.” However, Israeli authorities have not provided details about why the killing is being classified as a terror attack.

The UAE’s Ministry of Interior confirmed the arrests of three suspects but has not yet disclosed their identities or the motive behind the killing.

A Personal Loss with a Global Impact

Kogan’s wife, Rivky, a U.S. citizen, is the niece of Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg, who was killed in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The tragedy has drawn international attention, with U.S. National Security Council spokesperson Sean Savett condemning the killing as “a horrific crime against all those who stand for peace, tolerance, and coexistence.”

Legacy of Peace and Tolerance

Rabbi Kogan’s work in the UAE was a testament to the growing efforts to build bridges between communities in the region. His death has left a void not only in the Jewish community but also in the broader effort toward fostering peace and tolerance in the Gulf.

As investigations continue, Kogan’s legacy of unity and compassion serves as a reminder of the importance of coexistence in a world too often marred by hatred.