UAE authorities have arrested three Uzbek nationals in connection with the murder of Rabbi Tzvi Kogan, an Israeli-Moldovan rabbi. The suspects have been named as Olimboy Tohirovich, Makhmudjon Abdurakhim, and Azizbek Kamilovich. This incident has sparked concerns over anti-Semitism and public safety in the UAE, which prides itself on its stability and tolerance. Investigations are ongoing to determine the motives behind the crime.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) authorities have identified three suspects implicated in the murder of Rabbi Tzvi Kogan, an Israeli-Moldovan rabbi based in the UAE. All three suspects, Olimboy Tohirovich, Makhmudjon Abdurakhim, and Azizbek Kamilovich, are Uzbek nationals, as confirmed by the interior ministry on Monday. Their arrest followed the discovery of Rabbi Kogan’s body by security forces on Sunday. The UAE government has commenced further investigations to clarify the circumstances and motivations behind the crime. Israeli officials have labeled this incident as a terrorist and anti-Semitic act, heightening concerns regarding safety in what is perceived as a stable and tolerant environment.
Rabbi Kogan, who was 28 years old, represented the Chabad Hasidic movement in the UAE, which is known for fostering Jewish outreach globally. The UAE, along with Bahrain and Morocco, established diplomatic ties with Israel in 2020 under a series of agreements known as the Abraham Accords. While the exact number of Jews residing in the UAE is not publicly disclosed, estimates suggest there may be up to 4,000 individuals linked to the Jewish community in the region, with around 2,000 Israelis and further expatriates.
The identification of the murder suspects in the UAE highlights concerns about anti-Semitism and public safety within the traditionally tolerant Gulf state. Rabbi Tzvi Kogan’s role as a representative of the Chabad movement signifies the growing Jewish presence in the UAE, particularly after the normalization of relations with Israel. The response from Israeli officials underscores the geopolitical tensions that may arise from targeted violence against individuals representing Jewish communities in the region. Such incidents could impact the perception of safety and stability that the UAE is known for, especially among its expatriate populations.
In conclusion, the identification of three Uzbek nationals as suspects in the murder of Rabbi Tzvi Kogan marks a significant event in the context of UAE’s relations with Israel and the safety of its Jewish community. As investigations continue, this incident raises alarms about the potential for rising anti-Semitism and its implications for the broader expatriate community in the UAE. The UAE’s commitment to addressing this issue will be critical in maintaining its reputation as a safe and stable environment for diverse populations.
Original Source: www.france24.com
