Tragedy in the UAE: Rabbi Tzvi Kogan HY"D Murdered

A tragic loss has struck the Jewish world and the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have found the body of Rabbi Tzvi Kogan HY"D, a devoted Chabad emissary based in Abu Dhabi and director of the "Rimon" kosher store in Dubai. Abducted and murdered by an Iranian terrorist cell, his death leaves a deep wound in the global Jewish community.

Rabbi Kogan had gone missing last Thursday under suspicious circumstances. His vehicle was discovered abandoned in Al Ain, approximately 150 kilometers from Abu Dhabi. From that moment, heartfelt prayers arose from Jewish communities worldwide, intensifying after the official announcement on Saturday night.

Born in Jerusalem, Rabbi Kogan dedicated his life to strengthening Jewish life in the Emirates, a rapidly growing community following the Abraham Accords. Together with his wife, Rabbanit Rivka (Shpillman) — the niece of Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg HY"D, who was killed in the 2008 Mumbai Chabad House attack — Rabbi Kogan worked tirelessly to spread Jewish warmth and values, even in distant lands.

Israeli authorities confirmed that Rabbi Kogan's abduction and murder were perpetrated by an Iranian terrorist cell, a heinous antisemitic act. The Israeli government has vowed to bring those responsible to justice and has urged caution for citizens traveling to the UAE.

Rabbi Tzvi Kogan is survived by his wife Rivka, his parents Rabbi Alexander and Etel Kogan of Jerusalem, and an entire community touched by his leadership and dedication. His loss serves as a painful reminder of life’s fragility and the enduring need for Jewish unity in the face of such tragedies.

Baruch Dayan HaEmet. Hashem Yikom Damam.