Hundreds Search for Missing Jerusalem Woman Amid Growing Fears

Intensified search efforts are underway for Fatma al-Rajabi, a 61-year-old resident of East Jerusalem who has been missing since Sunday afternoon. Hundreds of volunteers, including many from East Jerusalem, have joined police in extensive searches around Jerusalem, including areas like Mevaseret Zion and Abu Ghosh, based on operational leads. Al-Rajabi was last seen leaving her home, with visual documentation confirming her departure.

As time passes without contact, concerns for her safety are escalating, and investigators are exploring various possibilities, including a potential criminal motive. The family has expressed strong criticism regarding the pace and sensitivity of the police response, alleging that a Jewish woman would have received a more immediate and comprehensive search effort involving helicopters and all available resources.

Based on this perceived disparity, the family is now demanding the involvement of the Shin Bet security agency in the investigation. However, police officials have firmly rejected these claims, denying any discrimination or delay in their response. Commander Shalom Cohen stated that the investigation has been intensive and multi-faceted since the initial report on Sunday, utilizing all available advanced technological and operational means.

Cohen emphasized that this case represents one of the most resource-intensive missing person investigations, with no exceptions made in deploying the most sophisticated tools and personnel.