On Monday, in a statement, the Iranian Embassy in Abu Dhabi categorically denied the allegations accusing Iran of involvement in the killing of a Jewish rabbi in the Emirates.
The Iranian embassy said in response to a question from Reuters: “We categorically reject the allegations alleging Iran’s involvement in the killing of this person.”
On Monday, Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper quoted sources as saying that current indicators show that those who killed the Israeli rabbi – of Moldovan origin – Zvi Kogan did not act on the instructions of Iran.
According to the newspaper, preliminary investigations indicate that the operation may have been carried out by a group of Uzbeks, in exchange for a large sum of money.
On Sunday, the UAE Ministry of Interior announced the arrest of three people in connection with the killing of the Israeli rabbi.
Earlier, on Sunday, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the killing of Rabbi Zvi Kogen, saying it was a “heinous, anti-Semitic act of terrorism.” The office added in a statement that Israel will use all its means to bring those responsible for his killing to justice.
Local authorities reported that Kogin was residing in the Emirates and also held Moldovan citizenship. He was also a representative of the religious Jewish movement Chabad, which is based in New York. He was first reported missing on Thursday before his body was found on Sunday.
Yousef Al Otaiba, the UAE ambassador to Washington, said that Cogan’s killing is a crime against the UAE and “an attack on our homeland, our values, and our vision.”
He added in a statement, “We embrace peaceful coexistence and reject extremism and fanaticism in all their forms.”
The Israeli Foreign Ministry said that all Israeli agencies are participating in the investigation, and it is believed that Cogen was last seen in a kosher store in Dubai.
Former Israeli politician Ayoub Kara told Reuters in Dubai that Kogin’s body was found in the city of Al Ain, but it is not yet clear whether he was killed there or elsewhere.
The Israeli authorities re-issued a recommendation advising against traveling to the Emirates unless necessary, and said that visitors there should limit their movements, stay in safe areas, and avoid visiting places associated with Israel and Jews.
Last updated: November 25, 2024 – 12:08
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Interview between the Time.news Editor and Security Analyst Dr. Sarah Halim
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Dr. Halim. Thank you for joining us today. The news of Rabbi Zvi Kogan’s tragic murder in the UAE has sent shockwaves through various communities, especially given the implications of international relations and security. What are your initial thoughts on this incident?
Dr. Sarah Halim: Good afternoon! It’s a pleasure to be here. My first thought is the complexity of the situation. The Iranian embassy’s swift denial of involvement is telling; it suggests that they want to distance themselves from any actions that could escalate tensions in the region. This incident also raises questions about security in the UAE, which has been perceived as a relatively safe haven.
Time.news Editor: That’s an interesting point. The Iranian embassy categorically rejected any allegations of involvement. What does this denial indicate about the current geopolitical climate in the region?
Dr. Sarah Halim: The denial signifies an effort by Iran to maintain diplomatic relations and avoid further isolation. By rejecting these allegations, they are attempting to preserve their international reputation, especially considering the sensitive nature of anti-Semitism in the context of Middle Eastern politics. It’s important for Iran to control the narrative surrounding such incidents.
Time.news Editor: Indeed, and Yedioth Ahronoth reported that preliminary investigations hint at a possible Uzbek connection to the attack, rather than direct instruction from Iran. How significant is this development?
Dr. Sarah Halim: Very significant. If it’s confirmed that the attackers acted independently—presumably motivated by financial incentives rather than state-sponsored terror—it could shift the narrative entirely. This implies that there may be more localized criminal or sectarian motivations at play, rather than a broader geopolitical agenda. It’s a reminder of how complex and multifaceted such incidents can be.
Time.news Editor: The UAE ministry has arrested three individuals in connection with the killing. What does this mean for security protocols in the Emirates moving forward?
Dr. Sarah Halim: The arrests indicate that authorities are taking the matter seriously, which is a positive step. However, it also exposes vulnerabilities in their security apparatus. The UAE has been bolstering its international image as a model of safety and stability, so any cracks in that facade can lead to heightened scrutiny. Moving forward, we can expect a tightening of security measures, particularly around expatriate communities and places of worship.
Time.news Editor: Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office condemned the act, labeling it a “heinous, anti-Semitic act of terrorism.” What impact might this have on Israeli and UAE relations, particularly in the context of the Abraham Accords?
Dr. Sarah Halim: That’s crucial to consider. While the Abraham Accords were a landmark in promoting Israeli-Arab relations, acts like this can severely strain those ties. Netanyahu’s condemnation may lead to calls for stricter action against any perceived threat emanating from within Arab states, which could result in increased diplomatic tension. Both nations must navigate this carefully to maintain the progress made, but this incident will undoubtedly cast a shadow over their relationship.
Time.news Editor: as an expert in international security, what broader implications do you foresee from this incident for religious communities and international diplomacy in the region?
Dr. Sarah Halim: This incident underscores the ongoing vulnerabilities faced by minority communities in the region, particularly Jewish communities. It may lead to increased security measures for these communities not just in the UAE but across the Gulf states. Diplomatically, it brings to light the necessity of interfaith dialogues and cooperation to combat rising extremism. There’s a fine balance to be struck between addressing legitimate security concerns and fostering an environment of coexistence.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Halim, for your insights into this complex and evolving situation. Your perspectives will help our readers understand the broader ramifications of Rabbi Kogan’s tragic murder in the UAE.
Dr. Sarah Halim: Thank you for having me. It’s important to keep the conversation going about these issues as they unfold.