November 25, 2024, New York, NY – We are deeply saddened and outraged by the tragic and senseless murder of Rabbi Zvi Kogan, a respected emissary of peace, community, and faith, in the United Arab Emirates. This heinous crime is not only an attack on Rabbi Kogan’s life but a vicious assault on the ideals of coexistence, tolerance, and mutual respect that Rabbi Kogan enthusiastically embraced and promoted, working with his friends and partners across the region, including Emiratis and Arabs, Jews and Muslims. The murder of Rabbi Kogan is an act of antisemitic terror that reverberates beyond the Jewish community. It is a hateful affront to all Israelis, to their Arab partners in peace, and to all peace-loving people worldwide. Such attacks are designed to shatter the bonds of humanity that unite us and sow seeds of hatred and fear. We cannot allow this darkness to prevail.
This tragedy is also an attack on the United Arab Emirates, a nation that has exemplified a commitment to tolerance, conflict resolution, and shared prosperity. As a signatory of the historic Abraham Accords, the UAE has shown what is possible when courage and vision replace animosity. We commend the UAE law enforcement for the rapid and immediate action that resulted in apprehending suspects and unraveling the case.
Rabbi Kogan’s murder is a stark reminder that malignant forces—determined to maintain conflict and division—are working tirelessly to undermine these achievements.
It is critical that we stand united in the face of such evil. Israelis, Emiratis, Jews, Arabs, and all people committed to peace must remain vigilant. The axis of malign actors, including Iran and its proxies, seeks to disrupt our shared aspirations for stability, prosperity, and harmony in the Middle East. They aim to perpetuate hatred and division, stifling the hope of a better future for all.
Let us honor Rabbi Kogan’s memory by reaffirming our commitment to peace and unity. Together, we must ensure that such acts of terror do not deter us from the path of tolerance and coexistence.
May Rabbi Zvi Kogan’s memory be a blessing and may his life’s work inspire us to redouble our efforts to build a world free from hate.
Zecher Tzadik Livracha — The memory of the righteous is a blessing.
