DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – In a shocking development, authorities in the United Arab Emirates announced on Monday the arrest of three Uzbek nationals in connection with the murder of an Israeli-Moldovan rabbi, Zvi Kogan. The brutal attack on the rabbi has raised concerns among the growing Israeli community in the country.

According to a statement from the country’s Interior Ministry, the motive for the killing of Kogan is still unclear. However, an Israeli Foreign Ministry official revealed that he was targeted simply because of his identity as an ultra-Orthodox rabbi. Kogan, known for running a kosher grocery store in Dubai, catered to the increasing number of Israelis doing business and tourism in the city following the 2020 Abraham Accords that established diplomatic ties between UAE and Israel.

The arrest of the three Uzbek men – Olimboy Tohirovich, Makhmudjon Abdurakhim, and Azizbek Kamilovich – was announced by the Interior Ministry. The suspects are currently undergoing preliminary investigations before being handed over to public prosecutors for further examination.

While Israeli media reports previously suggested the involvement of Uzbeks in the killing of Rabbi Kogan, authorities are looking into any potential links to transnational criminal networks from Iran. Despite tensions in the region, the UAE has been actively cooperating with Israeli authorities in the investigation, indicating a dedication to maintaining diplomatic relations amid escalating conflicts in neighboring countries.

Israeli officials, including U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have expressed appreciation for the UAE’s efforts in addressing the murder of Rabbi Kogan. As the investigation unfolds, concerns remain high among the Israeli and Jewish communities in the UAE, prompting heightened security measures during a period of uncertainty and unrest in the region.

As the UAE continues its inquiry, Israeli officials are hopeful that justice will be served in the case of Rabbi Kogan’s tragic death. The incident has not only shaken the expatriate community in Dubai but also highlighted the complexities and challenges facing countries in the Middle East as they navigate through political tensions and diplomatic relations.