UAE Arrests Three Uzbek Nationals in Rabbi’s Murder: Concerns for Israeli Community

UAE Arrests Three for Killing Rabbi

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced the arrest of three Uzbek nationals in connection with the murder of Zvi Kogan, an Israeli-Moldovan rabbi. Kogan, 28, went missing last Thursday and was later found dead. The Interior Ministry did not specify a motive for the killing, but an Israeli official stated he was targeted for his identity as an ultra-Orthodox Jew.

Kogan operated a kosher grocery store in Dubai, which has seen an increase in its Israeli community since the UAE established diplomatic ties with Israel in 2020. Recent conflicts in the region, especially following Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, have raised tensions, impacting perceptions of Israelis living in the UAE.

The three arrested men are Olimboy Tohirovich, Makhmudjon Abdurakhim, and Azizbek Kamilovich. Images released by the state-run WAM news agency show them blindfolded and in prison uniforms. The UAE plans to refer the case to public prosecution for further investigation.

While Iranian involvement in Kogan’s murder has not been confirmed, Israeli media reports suggest links to Uzbek nationals, hinting at possible connections to Iranian plots against dissidents. Iran’s embassy denied any connections to the crime.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked the UAE for its cooperation in the investigation, emphasizing the need to strengthen ties despite external threats. Kogan’s grocery store, the Rimon Market, has been temporarily closed amid heightened tension and online protests against Israeli presence.

Kogan’s body was repatriated to Israel for burial. The Israeli Foreign Ministry is involved in the investigation. With rising fears since the October attacks, the Jewish community in the UAE has altered its worship practices to maintain safety. Despite criticism of Israeli actions in Gaza, the UAE has kept its diplomatic relations with Israel intact.