Missing Israeli Hiker's Mother Reveals First-Ever Trek, Lack of Insurance

The mother of Ami Yogev, a 46-year-old Israeli man missing on Mount Olympus in Greece, revealed that this was her son's first-ever hiking trip and that his lack of travel insurance is hindering the search efforts. Shosh Debi told Kan News that her son flew to Greece last Tuesday to look for work and initially planned to sightsee. He informed her on Saturday that he intended to climb Mount Olympus, sending photos from the first and second stages of his ascent before heading towards the summit.

Debi stated that Yogev was alone on the trek, a new experience for him, despite her concerns. He had assured her he knew what he was doing and dismissed her suggestion to purchase insurance, saying it was unnecessary. The last communication was on Sunday.

Sivan Zamir, CEO of "Greece and the Islands," joined the search efforts as a volunteer. He noted that while there was a report of Yogev being seen at a mountain hut on Sunday afternoon, it seemed inconsistent with his known timeline. Zamir emphasized Mount Olympus's dangerous terrain, particularly the descents, and the lack of adequate trail security, recommending hikes with guides or groups.

Greek police, rescue teams, and a special drone unit have been searching since Monday evening. Zamir commented that having private insurance could have expedited the process and that coordinating searches through Greek authorities without a direct Israeli liaison can complicate and slow down information gathering.