Missing Girl's Family Marks 929 Days of Hope for Her Return

The family of Haimenot Kassao, a nine-year-old girl who disappeared from a reception center in Safed over two and a half years ago, has issued an emotional message marking the 929th day of her absence. Haimenot vanished in February 2024 when she was just nine years old. Her case has deeply resonated with the Israeli public, with nearly 600 people currently listed as missing in Israel whose fates remain unknown.

The Kassao family is now entering their third consecutive year celebrating the High Holidays without their daughter. They remain the sole residents of the Safed absorption center, steadfastly refusing to leave until Haimenot is brought home. "A truly good year is one in which Haimenot returns home," stated the official message from the committee advocating for her return.

Haimenot's father, Tesfaye Kassao, used the eve of the Jewish New Year to express gratitude to the Israeli public for their continuous support over the past two years and six months. "Thank you to the brothers and sisters who help in every way, with thoughts, financial support, and prayers. We thank you and wish you a good and blessed year," he said.

He also highlighted the unique convergence of the Jewish New Year and Enkutatash, the Ethiopian New Year, which signifies the end of the rainy season and the beginning of agricultural renewal. Drawing on this symbolism of renewal and hope, Tesfaye urged all citizens to join the family's prayers. "We ask all the people of Israel to direct their prayers so that our Haimenot will emerge from wherever she is and join us. I yearn for us to return to a normal life path of family, studies, and work, and hope to reach a time when we can hold a large thanksgiving party for Haimenot, who is also a bit your child now. Pray that Almighty God will ensure she is found quickly and is with us at home."