Noam Simchi, the volunteer who located 4-year-old Yuval Kogan earlier Friday, spoke with President Isaac Herzog on Friday evening, according to Israel Hayom and N12. Simchi, a Breslov Hasidic follower, told the president, 'We are students of Rabbi Nachman.'
Noam Simchi, the volunteer who located 4-year-old Yuval Kogan earlier Friday, spoke with President Isaac Herzog on Friday evening, according to Israel Hayom and N12. Simchi, a Breslov Hasidic follower, told the president, "We are students of Rabbi Nachman." Herzog thanked Simchi for his efforts.
The rescue capped a massive search that began Thursday after Yuval went missing from an Ashkelon beach. The Israel Prison Service deployed its "Tzur" unit, which monitors sex offenders, as part of the operation, alongside drones, regional units, and volunteers. As The Zioneer reported earlier, Simchi described how he had set out with his horse, lost his way, and then spotted the child sitting under a tree. He said the boy was in shock and asked for water.
Police Commissioner Danny Levi said the investigation indicated Yuval walked toward what he thought was home, likely slept through the night, and stayed in the shade during the morning, which may have saved his life. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the safe return, citing the nation's solidarity. The boy was found dehydrated but in good health.
9 developments
- DevelopingPresident Herzog speaks with mother of missing child, calls for help in search
- DevelopingNetanyahu congratulates on safe return of Yuval Kogan, cites 'mutual responsibility'
- DevelopingFather of missing Ashkelon child tells Ben Gvir 'something fishy'; minister says he will meet Shin Bet chief
- StrongAshkelon mayor: 'A clear miracle' to see Yuval Kogan in his mother's arms
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