Family of Missing Girl, 9, Marks 942 Days with Jerusalem Protest

The family of Haimnot Kaso, a 9-year-old girl who disappeared from Safed 942 days ago, has established a protest booth in Jerusalem to keep her case in the public eye during the Sukkot holiday. Haimnot was last seen at the absorption center in Safed when she was nine years old. Her father, Tesfaye Kaso, stated that the family intends to remain in Jerusalem until the Shin Bet security agency takes responsibility for the investigation.

The family chose to set up their Sukkot booth near government offices in Jerusalem, rather than their usual location, to increase public exposure to their struggle and garner support. The booth, located in Shimon Agrant Square near the Supreme Court, is intended not only as a protest site but also as a place for the public to meet with the family, offer comfort, and pray for Haimnot's safe return. "We want the public to hear, to know, to help, and to come pray and spend the holiday with us," the father said.

The family announced that the booth symbolizes prayer and unity, reflecting their long journey without Haimnot's return. This protest follows previous demonstrations demanding the Shin Bet take over the investigation, as the family and activists claim no leads have been found in the 941 days preceding the booth's erection. They are urging the public not to leave them alone during the holiday and inviting anyone who wishes to visit, sit with them, and show support.

Other activists and families of freed hostages, including Shelly Shem Tov, mother of Omer Shem Tov, have joined the Kaso family's efforts. Shem Tov shared that the Kaso family's struggle reminded her of her own son's captivity and urged continued remembrance of Haimnot. Titi Einau has also been actively supporting the family, attending Knesset meetings and expressing solidarity with their efforts to locate the child.