According to new information obtained by Interview, Rabbi Zvi Kogan, emissary of the Chabad Orthodox Jewish movement and Israeli-Moldovan citizen, was on his way to a dentist appointment in Abu Dhabi this Thursday early in the afternoon when he stopped giving signs of life. Worried about his prolonged absence and the lack of news, his family quickly alerted the police.
In a joint statement from the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office and the Mossad, Israeli authorities announced that an “intensive investigation has been launched” to elucidate the circumstances of this worrying event. The Israeli intelligence services, fully mobilized, favor the trail of a terrorist act, possibly orchestrated by Iranian agents. Sources close to the matter reveal that Zvi Kogan, an influential figure in the local Jewish community and close to Rabbi Levi Duchman, Chabad emissary to the United Arab Emirates, was allegedly placed under surveillance by terrorists before his disappearance.
Evidence collected by Israeli services suggests that Zvi Kogan was kidnapped by agents affiliated with Iran, before being transferred to Iranian territory. This hypothesis reinforces fears of a premeditated act, the geopolitical repercussions of which could prove serious for the Gulf region.
In Israel as in France, the disappearance of the rabbi arouses strong emotion. Many religious and political leaders have expressed their concern. “Dozens of calls are coming to us to find out what really happened,” says someone close to Kogan. The international Jewish community, for its part, calls for rapid and concrete actions to elucidate this disappearance and guarantee the safety of the rabbi.
As the investigation continues, Israel and the United Arab Emirates are working closely to trace Zvi Kogan’s latest movements. If the Iranian lead were to be confirmed, this event would risk further aggravating the already high tensions between Israel and Tehran.
**Given the potential implications for Jewish communities in the UAE and the broader Middle East, what concrete actions should international organizations and governments take to ensure the safety and security of religious minorities in the region, particularly in light of this incident?**
## World Today News Exclusive Interview: The Disappearance of Rabbi Zvi Kogan
**Welcome to World Today News. Today, we delve into the perplexing disappearance of Rabbi Zvi Kogan in Abu Dhabi. We are joined by two distinguished guests:**
* **Dr. Sarah Cohen:** A Middle East Security Analyst with expertise in Iranian foreign policy.
* **Rabbi David Levy:** A prominent leader within the Chabad movement and a close acquaintance of Rabbi Kogan.
**Introduction:**
Let’s begin by acknowledging the profound concern surrounding Rabbi Kogan’s disappearance. Dr. Cohen, given your expertise, what are your initial thoughts on the circumstances surrounding this event?
**Part 1: The Disappearance and Initial Investigations**
* Dr. Cohen, Israeli authorities are reportedly investigating the possibility of a terror act. What factors contribute to this hypothesis?
* Rabbi Levy, did Rabbi Kogan express any concerns about his safety in Abu Dhabi prior to his disappearance?
* Both of you, what are the potential implications of this incident for the Jewish community, particularly in the UAE?
**Part 2: The Iranian Connection and Regional Tensions**
* Dr. Cohen, what is the historical context of alleged Iranian involvement in such incidents targeting individuals perceived as adversaries?
* Rabbi Levy, how might this event impact relations between Israel and the UAE, considering the existing Abraham Accords?
* Considering the already tense geopolitical climate in the region, what are the potential ramifications if Iran is confirmed to be involved?
**Part 3: The International Response and Call for Action**
* Dr. Cohen, what diplomatic approaches might be employed by Israel to address this situation on the international stage?
* Rabbi Levy, what message does the international Jewish community have for the UAE and Israeli authorities at this critical juncture?
* Looking ahead, both guests, what are the key steps needed to ensure
the safety and security of individuals, particularly religious leaders, within the region?
**Concluding Remarks**
This is a developing story with potential far-reaching consequences. We thank Dr. Cohen and Rabbi Levy for sharing their insights. Our thoughts and prayers are with Rabbi Kogan and his family. We will continue to monitor this situation and provide updates as they become available.
