24 Nov 2024 | 12:50 PM UTC
UAE: Authorities confirm missing Israeli Chabad emissary found dead Nov. 24 /update 1
Authorities confirm missing Israeli Chabad emissary found dead in UAE, on Nov. 24. Investigation ongoing.
Authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) confirmed on Nov. 24 that they found the body of Israel's Chabad envoy to the UAE. It is unclear exactly where his body was found, though his car was found abandoned in Al Ain, around 150 kilometers (93 miles) east of Abu Dhabi.
The victim, a dual Israeli-Moldovan national, had been residing in the UAE. His family stated they lost contact with him on Nov. 20, while Israeli authorities reported him missing on Nov. 21. As of Nov. 24, Israeli and Emirati authorities are investigating the incident. Israeli officials stated they suspected Iranian involvement and that the victim was kidnapped and killed by three Uzbek nationals who subsequently fled to Turkiye.
Maintain a low public profile and be alert to suspicious persons and/or activity. Vary routes regularly. Heed instructions from authorities. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly.
While kidnapping is rare in the UAE, the heightened tensions between Iran and Israel have increased the risk for Israeli citizens globally. Iran and its proxies will likely continue to target Israeli citizens in countries where they can operate more freely.
