Noam Simchi, the ZAKA volunteer who located 4-year-old Yuval Kogan earlier Friday, spoke with President Isaac Herzog and shared emotional details of the search, according to reports. Simchi told the president he nearly gave up before a navigation error led him to the child, and thanked the nation, saying 'Love every Jew wherever they are.'
The search for 4-year-old Yuval Kogan, who went missing in Ashkelon, ended safely Friday afternoon when he was found under a tree near Nitzan Beach by Noam Simchi, a ZAKA volunteer on horseback. Simchi, who had joined the search on his own initiative, told Israel Hayom and N12 that he lost his way while returning to the farm and spotted the child. The child, who had walked from home and sheltered in the shade, was dehydrated but unharmed. Later Friday, Simchi spoke with President Isaac Herzog, who thanked him. Simchi said, 'When someone in the people of Israel is in trouble, we are first to show up. Love every Jew wherever they are.' Police said the child likely fell asleep during the night and stayed in the shade in the morning, which saved his life. The Zioneer reported on the search and rescue throughout the day.
10 developments
- DevelopingNetanyahu congratulates on safe return of Yuval Kogan, cites 'mutual responsibility'
- StrongAshkelon mayor: 'A clear miracle' to see Yuval Kogan in his mother's arms
- DevelopingPresident Herzog speaks with mother of missing child, calls for help in search
- StrongParents of missing Haymanot Kasaou welcome Yuval Kogan's discovery
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