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An Orthodox Jewish rabbi, Rabbi Zvi Kogan, is feared dead following his disappearance on Thursday in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. His global community was shocked and alarmed when Rabbi Kogan, a Chabad emissary with dual citizenship in Moldova and Israel, went missing. 

For some time before he went missing Rabbi Kogan was reportedly being followed by Iranian intelligence.

 Authorities, including Israel’s Mossad, have launched an investigation linking his case to potential "terrorist involvement. "Iranian terror group the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for the abduction of the Rabbi.

The IRGC released a statement on social media claiming, “As part of the first stage of Operation “Ensuring Truth 3,” and in fulfillment of their promise in response to Zionist aggression on Iranian lands and violations of Iranian sovereignty, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards have declared full responsibility for the abduction of the Israeli extremist Rabbi Tzvi Kogan.”

Chabad Emissary’s Disappearance Raises Alarm

Known for his dedication to his community, Kogan worked as a recruiter and shared on LinkedIn his passion for "volunteering and serving [his] community."

The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office confirmed the investigation on Saturday, citing credible information suggesting "a terrorist incident" behind Kogan's disappearance.

“Since his disappearance, and given information indicating that this is a terrorist incident, an active investigation has been going on in the country,” stated the office in a post on X. “Israeli security and intelligence orgs, concerned for Kogan's safety and wellbeing, have been working tirelessly on this case.”

Travel Advisory and UAE’s Role in the Investigation

The statement also emphasized existing safety concerns in the region.

 “This also serves as a reminder that for a while, per the recommendations of the NSC, there has been a level 3 – moderate travel warning issued for the UAE, with a recommendation to avoid any non-essential travel there, and for those who are in the country – take extra precautions.”

UAE officials have initiated their own investigation. Emerati official Majed Al Mansoori confirmed that authorities are working diligently on the case.

 “The Ministry is closely monitoring the case of the missing Moldovan citizen, Zvi Kogan, and is in close contact with his family to provide them with all means of necessary support,” Al Mansoori stated. He added that UAE authorities have launched extensive search operations.

Chabad Movement Appeals for Prayers

The Chabad movement has asked followers for prayers for Rabbi Kogan’s safe return. In a post on X, Chabad.org wrote, “Please say a chapter of Psalms for the immediate and safe return of Tzvi hakohen ben Etel.”

Chabad, a prominent Hasidic Jewish organization, is known for its outreach efforts and global presence. Unlike most Haredi groups, it caters openly to nonobservant Jews, fostering inclusivity within the Jewish community.