Po missing since Thursday in the Gulf country where he resided, the body of Tzvi Kogan, a rabbi with dual Israeli-Moldavian nationality, was discovered lifeless by the authorities of the Emirates, the Prime Minister’s office and the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, consulted from Agence France-Presse (AFP). While for the moment no details have been provided either on the location of the discovery of the body or on the circumstances of the murder or on the identity of the suspects, the Mossad announced on Saturday that it had opened an investigation following the disappearance of the rabbi.
In a statement published this Sunday, November 24, Israel denounced an “atrocious” act of anti-Semitic terrorism and said that the state “will use all means at its disposal” to ensure that justice is done and that those responsible for the murder are Tzvi Kogan’s death answers for their actions.
Israel urges its citizens to take additional precautions
Although the UAE is one of the Arab countries to have normalized relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords in 2020, Israeli authorities have asked its citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to the Gulf and advised citizens already there to carry out other precautions.
I mourn with pain and indignation the murder of Rabbi Zvi Kogan.
This vile anti-Semitic attack is a reminder of the inhumanity of the enemies of the Jewish people. This will not stop us from continuing to grow thriving communities in the UAE or elsewhere, especially with the help…
— Isaac Herzog Isaac Herzog (@Isaac_Herzog) November 24, 2024
“This vile anti-Semitic attack reminds us of the inhumanity of the enemies of the Jewish people,” Israeli President Isaac Herzog responded on his X (formerly Twitter) account. “This will not stop us from continuing to develop thriving communities in the UAE or elsewhere,” he added.
Married for six months, Rabbi Tzvi Kogan was an emissary of Chabad-Lubavitch, an ultra-Orthodox Hasidic movement with a global missionary commitment aimed at strengthening Jewish identity and bringing Jews closer to their faith. In a message on X, the movement paid tribute to the deceased. Expressing its “great sorrow,” Chabad-Lubavitch said the rabbi was “murdered by terrorists after being kidnapped on Thursday.”
For its part, the Moldovan Foreign Ministry said it was in contact with the country’s authorities to “clarify the circumstances of this case”. Extremely discreet regarding this murder, on which they have not commented, the Emirati authorities specified that they “immediately started search operations” on Saturday to find Tzvi Kogan, presented as Moldovan without specifying his dual Israeli nationality.
What are the underlying factors contributing to anti-Semitism in regions with normalized diplomatic relations?
Interview Between the Time.news Editor and Expert on Anti-Semitism and International Relations
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today. The recent tragic news regarding Rabbi Tzvi Kogan has sent shockwaves through both Israel and the broader international community. Can you provide some context on the significance of this case?
Expert: Thank you for having me. The murder of Rabbi Tzvi Kogan is indeed a deeply troubling incident, especially given the context of the UAE-Israel relations established under the Abraham Accords in 2020. Kogan’s death not only raises questions about the safety of Israeli citizens abroad but also highlights the persistent undercurrents of anti-Semitism that can exist even in nations where diplomatic ties have been normalized.
Editor: It’s alarming to hear that, especially in a region that has seen significant diplomatic progress. What are some of the implications of labeling this incident as “anti-Semitic terrorism,” as stated by Israeli officials?
Expert: When Israeli officials label an act in this manner, it serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it underscores the seriousness with which they take anti-Semitic violence, framing it as a broader threat to Jewish communities worldwide. Secondly, this designation likely galvanizes efforts for justice and could prompt international support or intervention. It also raises the stakes for the UAE, which may face pressure to enhance security for Israeli nationals and address systemic issues related to anti-Semitism within its borders.
Editor: The response from the Israeli government has been quite strong, with calls for justice and increased security measures. How should the international community respond to such incidents?
Expert: There are a few avenues for the international community to consider. Firstly, diplomatic dialogues should be strengthened among nations to address and combat anti-Semitism globally, taking proactive measures rather than reactive ones. Furthermore, condemnation of violent acts is essential, but it must be coupled with a commitment to education and cultural exchange to combat the ideologies that fuel such hatred. Countries should also hold accountable those who enable or perpetuate anti-Semitic beliefs.
Editor: The Israeli government has advised its citizens to take additional precautions when traveling to the UAE. How does this impact tourism and relations between the two countries moving forward?
Expert: This advisory certainly poses challenges. Tourism is a significant aspect of the new relationship between Israel and the UAE, and security concerns can deter visitors. The Israeli government’s recommendation could create a sense of unease among potential travelers, which may impact the burgeoning tourism sector. For the UAE, addressing the security of Israeli citizens will be essential not just for public safety, but to maintain the integrity of the diplomatic relationship moving forward.
Editor: what steps can the UAE take to reassure both its citizens and foreign nationals—particularly those from Israel—about their safety?
Expert: The UAE can take several proactive steps. First, enhancing security protocols around areas frequented by Israeli nationals would be vital. Public statements that condemn anti-Semitism and stress the importance of peaceful coexistence can also help. Additionally, promoting interfaith dialogues and community outreach programs can foster a more inclusive environment. Transparency in investigations related to such incidents will also be crucial in rebuilding trust.
Editor: Thank you for your insightful analysis. Our thoughts are with Rabbi Kogan’s family and community during this tragic time, and we hope for justice to be served.
Expert: Thank you for highlighting this important issue. It’s crucial we keep the conversation going.