Parliamentary Committee Demands Progress in Missing Girl Haimnot Kassao Case

Two years and eight months after the disappearance of Haimnot Kassao, the police have admitted there has been no breakthrough in the investigation. During the 32nd discussion on the matter by the Knesset Committee for Immigration and Absorption, her parents pleaded for the case to be transferred to the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency), with her mother questioning if her daughter's skin color was a factor. Committee Chairman MK Gilad Kariv stated that the committee has intensely focused on finding Haimnot, holding 32 discussions, and expressed hope that efforts would continue in the next Knesset. Kariv also addressed the family's request to move to Jerusalem, promising to coordinate with the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration and the Jewish Agency to facilitate this. He affirmed that the police are responsible for the investigation, which has involved multiple teams and collaboration with security agencies, and that the committee has ensured no obstacles hinder information sharing. Kariv indicated that the committee would continue to push for the Shin Bet's involvement and suggested the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration could fund another public awareness campaign if data shows increased tips. He also requested the police improve their communication with the family, emphasizing a moral obligation to continue the search.

The Kassao family expressed their despair with the police's capabilities and reiterated their demand for the Shin Bet to take over the investigation. They shared their struggle to return to normal life since Haimnot's disappearance and requested assistance from the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration to relocate to Jerusalem, believing it would aid their efforts to find her.