Israeli Missing in Greece: Family Criticizes Government for Lack of Professional Aid

Nearly two weeks have passed since Ami Yogev, a 46-year-old Israeli, disappeared on Mount Olympus in Greece, with search efforts continuing unabated. Amidst ongoing ground searches, sharp criticism has been directed at the Israeli government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, demanding increased professional involvement in the search operations. Sivan Zamir, who is assisting Yogev's family and has been involved since the incident began, posted on Friday calling for the state to urgently send an official missing persons expert to coordinate information, connect various parties, and advise the teams on the ground. Zamir emphasized that the family is not asking the state to fund the search or intervene diplomatically with Greece, praising the dedication of local rescue forces. However, he argued that Israel possesses knowledge and experience that could aid the complex situation. "All we ask is that the state urgently send an official missing persons expert from its ranks, a project manager who knows how to connect the dots, advise the teams on the ground, and coordinate the professional effort," he wrote, adding that the state's inaction amounts to abandoning an Israeli citizen. Zamir dedicated a significant portion of his post to Yogev's lack of adequate travel insurance, a factor that has become more critical as the search lengthens and costs escalate. The family is covering expenses through their own funds and public donations, taking full responsibility for this oversight. "Since when does the State of Israel condition saving a life on an insurance policy? Does a citizen who made a mistake abroad lose their right to their homeland?" he questioned. Greek rescue forces, volunteers, and teams from Israel have been conducting searches in steep, difficult terrain, utilizing drones with thermal imaging and night-vision capabilities. A delegation from United Hatzalah joined the effort to assist with drone operations. Zamir lauded the Greek efforts, reiterating that his criticism is not directed at them. The family has launched a crowdfunding campaign to fund the ongoing search, as Yogev did not have insurance to cover rescue costs. Efforts are also underway to secure additional funding from corporations. Despite extensive searches, Yogev has not yet been found. Zamir reiterated that the demand is for a professional Israeli liaison, not for the state to replace or fund the Greek search operation.