Family Criticizes State Over Funding to Repatriate Body of Israeli Found Dead in Greece

The family of Ami Yogeve, 46, who was found dead on Mount Olympus in Greece after nearly three weeks of searching, is facing financial difficulties in bringing his body back to Israel. His brother, Shlomi Yogeve, expressed frustration with the state's lack of assistance during the search and its current refusal to fund the repatriation.

"We all expected a different outcome, but this is the situation," Shlomi Yogeve told "HaYom." He praised the Israeli rescue friends who continued searching until the end. However, he sharply criticized the government, stating, "The state hasn't helped with the search so far, so at least the state should help bring him back financially, because we have no budget left."

The family reportedly approached the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for help, but was told they needed to finance the return themselves, as the state does not have a budget for such matters. The family had previously funded rescue teams and equipment for the extensive search.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over Yogeve's death and offering condolences. The ministry stated that the Israeli Consulate in Greece and its Department for Israelis Abroad had been in continuous contact with the family and assisted as much as possible throughout the search. They added that they are continuing to assist the family in completing the necessary procedures to bring Yogeve's body to Israel for burial as soon as possible.

Shlomi Yogeve's comments raise questions about the extent of financial support provided by the state to families of Israelis who go missing or die abroad, especially in cases requiring prolonged and costly search and rescue operations.