Emirati Ambassador condemns 'senseless death' of Rabbi Zvi Kogan, vows justice

The tragic killing of Rabbi Zvi Kogan, a 28-year-old Israeli-Moldovan citizen and UAE resident, has sparked widespread condemnation and reaffirmation of the UAE’s stance against extremism. Authorities in the UAE announced the arrest of three individuals in connection with the alleged murder after receiving a missing-person report from the victim’s family. Investigation teams later discovered his body, though details regarding the location and cause of death remain undisclosed.

Yousef Al Otaiba, the UAE's ambassador to the US, expressed the nation’s grief and outrage over the crime, emphasizing its broader implications.

“Today the UAE mourns for Rabbi Zvi Kogan. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and community over his senseless death,” said Mr. Al Otaiba on social media.

“Zvi Kogan’s murder was more than a crime in the UAE – it was a crime against the UAE. It was an attack on our homeland, on our values and on our vision. In the UAE, we welcome everyone. We embrace peaceful coexistence. We reject extremism and fanaticism of every kind. We honour Zvi Kogan’s memory by recommitting ourselves to these values.

“Now, we are more determined than ever to protecting and sustaining the Emirates as a shining and enduring example of diversity, acceptance and peace.”

The Ministry of Interior reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of all residents and visitors in the UAE.

“The ministry affirmed that the UAE and its institutions are fully committed to safeguarding the safety and security of its citizens, residents, and visitors,” reported state news agency Wam.

“It highlighted that the nation’s security apparatus maintains the highest standards of security and safety.”

The UAE has been in close contact with the Moldovan embassy in Abu Dhabi and Rabbi Kogan’s family throughout the investigation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to the UAE for its efforts in addressing the tragedy and reaffirmed the importance of strengthening ties between the two nations.

Rabbi Kogan was an emissary of Chabad Lubavitch, an orthodox Jewish organization that honored his memory in a tribute.

“We trust that the UAE will work with the countries in the region to bring the perpetrators to justice, and hold all those involved accountable for this act of sheer evil,” the organization said on X.

“Chabad-Lubavitch emissaries serve in countries around the globe in a spirit of generosity and kindness. Wherever they are stationed to grow and sustain Jewish life, they benefit the larger community as well with their love and light for all humanity. It is incumbent upon the authorities of every country where Chabad representatives serve in good faith, to ensure that terror finds no haven within its borders.

“We mourn with his wife and family, and with the entire Chabad community. May God console them, and may they find solace in his legacy.”

The tragic loss has united voices in mourning and determination to uphold the values of peace, coexistence, and safety that the UAE champions.