Jerusalem Man, 24, Dies in Norwegian Kayak Accident; Officials Seek Body Release

A 24-year-old Israeli man from Jerusalem has died in a kayaking accident in Norway, according to reports received Thursday, during the intermediate days of the Sukkot holiday. Another young Israeli man who was with him during the kayaking trip was injured and is currently hospitalized in a local Norwegian hospital.

ZAKA's International Unit and the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs are working with Norwegian authorities to prevent an autopsy of the deceased and to expedite the return of his body to Israel for burial. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the Israeli Embassy in Oslo and its department for Israelis in distress abroad are handling the case, liaising with local authorities since the initial report and providing support to the bereaved family.

ZAKA's International Unit has been intensely engaged with relevant Norwegian bodies, in close cooperation with the Foreign Ministry. The primary efforts are focused on preventing an autopsy, emphasizing respect for the deceased, and facilitating the swift transfer of the body to Israel for burial according to Jewish law. ZAKA's Deputy Operations Director, Haim Weingarten, described the incident as tragic and confirmed the ongoing efforts to secure the body's release and expedited transport to Israel.