What’s Happening
Israelis came together on Monday evening to honor Rabbi Zvi Kogan, an Israeli living in the United Arab Emirates, following his tragic death at the hands of suspected attackers from Uzbekistan. The authorities are investigating this contentious incident labeled an antisemitic attack by both Israeli officials and the Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic movement.
Why It Matters
Rabbi Zvi Kogan’s shocking death has sent shockwaves through the Jewish community, particularly affecting those residing in the Muslim-majority UAE. Rico warns for Israeli travelers and heightened national grief underline the situation’s intense gravity.
A Community in Mourning
The service in Kfar Chabad was deeply moving, as hundreds said goodbye to 28-year-old Rabbi Kogan. Amid heavy rain, mentions of innocence and widespread antisemitism resonated sorrowfully through speeches from family and religious leaders like Sephardic Chief Rabbi David Yosef.
Reactions Unfold Globally
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced Kogan’s murder, recognizing the horrors of antisemitic violence. International condemnation arose from leaders, including Moldova’s President, while the U.S. urged justice for this transgression.
Strengthened Bonds
Amid devastation, commitments to protect Jewish presence worldwide increased. Jared Kushner announced a $1 million donation to UAE’s Chabad, affirming Jewish resilience and community efforts as critical deterrents to those opposing peace and coexistence.
Emirati Cooperation
The UAE’s cooperation in bringing suspects to justice signifies its valued partnership with Israel, established under 2020’s Abraham Accords. Suspects’ arrest indicates continued solidarity amidst geopolitical tension.
Geopolitical Context
Given the backdrop of new Israel-UAE alliances, this tragic event and subsequent responses are pivotal in preventing disruptions influenced holistically by unrest from entities opposed to normalization.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.