Jerusalem Police Intensify Search for Missing Woman Amid Family Criticism

Jerusalem police and border guards, alongside hundreds of volunteers, are continuing an extensive search for Fatima Al-Rajabi, a 61-year-old Jerusalem resident who has been missing since last Sunday. The search operations involve field sweeps and following up on leads to locate Al-Rajabi, whose whereabouts remain unknown.

Commander of the Jerusalem District, Major General Avshalom Peled, held a special situation assessment to review the efforts and resources dedicated to the search, emphasizing the commitment to utilizing all available means to find her and understand the circumstances of her disappearance. Police have imposed a gag order on the investigation details.

Al-Rajabi's family has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the official response, criticizing what they describe as a delayed start to the search operations. They fear for her safety as time passes and have called for expanded efforts, including the involvement of the Shin Bet (Israel's internal security agency).

Her son specifically criticized the police's handling of the case, stating, "The official search started late." He contrasted the response with what he believes would occur if the missing person were Jewish, suggesting a more immediate and comprehensive mobilization of resources, including helicopters and all agencies, would have been initiated.

Both the family and the police have appealed to the public for any information that could help locate Fatima Al-Rajabi, urging anyone with relevant details to contact emergency services or the police station. The circumstances of her disappearance are still unclear as the search continues.