United Arab Emirates authorities have identified three Uzbek nationals as suspects in the murder of Rabbi Tzvi Kogan, whose body was discovered by security services. The suspects, aged 28 and 33, were arrested following preliminary investigations. Israeli officials have condemned the murder, labeling it an anti-Semitic act, prompting discussions on the safety of expatriates in the UAE, a nation committed to religious tolerance.
On Monday, authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) disclosed the identities of three individuals arrested in connection with the murder of Rabbi Tzvi Kogan, an Israeli-Moldovan rabbi based in the UAE. The Ministry of Interior confirmed that the suspects, identified as Olimboy Tohirovich, Makhmudjon Abdurakhim, both aged 28, and 33-year-old Azizbek Kamilovich, are all nationals from Uzbekistan. This announcement followed the discovery of Rabbi Kogan’s body by the security services. Following preliminary investigations, officials are now focused on uncovering the details surrounding the motives and circumstances of this violent act, which has garnered significant attention as a potential anti-Semitic attack. Israeli officials characterized the incident as a terrorist attack, raising concerns about the security and safety of expatriates in the region, which is typically known for its stability and tolerance.
Rabbi Tzvi Kogan represented the Chabad Hasidic movement and had been involved in outreach efforts within the UAE. The nation, which has a predominantly expatriate demographic, has positioned itself as a hub of safety and religious coexistence, particularly following its normalization of relations with Israel through the Abraham Accords in 2020. Although there is no official estimate of the Jewish population in the UAE, reports suggest a community that may consist of as many as 4,000 individuals. The recent murder of Rabbi Kogan has prompted heightened scrutiny regarding the treatment and safety of Jewish expatriates within this predominantly Muslim nation.
The murder of Rabbi Tzvi Kogan has raised urgent questions about the safety of expatriates in the UAE and the broader implications of anti-Semitic violence. With three Uzbek nationals now named as suspects, UAE authorities are actively investigating the motives behind this shocking crime, which contrasts sharply with the country’s image of religious tolerance. As the investigation unfolds, the response from both local and international communities will be pivotal in addressing concerns regarding security for Jewish residents in the Gulf region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
