The IRGC indicated that Rabbi Kogan was abducted as retaliation for Israeli strikes in Iran.
By Vered Weiss, World Israel News
Iranian terror group the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility for the abduction of Chabad rabbi in Abu Dhabi, Rabbi Zvi Kogan.
Rabbi Kogan, who has been missing for several days, was reportedly being followed by Iranian intelligence.
The IRGC released a statement on social media that said, “As part of the first stage of Operation “Ensuring Truth 3,” and in fulfillment of their promise in response to Zionist aggression on Iranian lands and violations of Iranian sovereignty, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards have declared full responsibility for the abduction of the Israeli extremist Rabbi Tzvi Kogan.”
The statement continued, “They warn that any Zionist action against Iranian sovereignty will be met with a severe response.”
The incident is being investigated by the Mossad and United Arab Emirates intelligence agencies.
Rabbi Kogan is an assistant to Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Duchman, Chief Rabbi of the United Arab Emirates.
On Saturday evening the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office released a statement: “Zvi Kogan, an Israeli-Moldovan citizen and Chabad emissary residing in the United Arab Emirates, has been missing since Thursday afternoon (November 21, 2024),” the PMO wrote.
The statement continued, “Following his disappearance and based on information suggesting a possible terror incident, a thorough investigation has been initiated in the country.”
“Israeli intelligence and security agencies are working relentlessly out of concern for the safety and well-being of Zvi Kogan,” the PMO continued.
The Prime Minister’s Office also highlighted that the National Security Council had previously issued a Level 3 travel warning (moderate threat) for the United Arab Emirates, urging against non-essential travel and recommending increased precautions for those currently in the country.
Kogan’s family told Channel 12 they had not heard from since Wednesday night.
According to Israeli intelligence, there is some indication that Rabbi Kogan may have been monitored by Iran shortly before and up to the time of his disappearance.
This is a developing story.