Four-Year-Old Yuval Kogen Found Alive Near Ashkelon After Intense Search

Yuval Kogen, a four-year-old boy who went missing on Thursday afternoon, was found alive and well north of Ashkelon after an extensive and tense 24-hour search. The boy was discovered by a horseback rider near Nitzanim Beach, who spotted him standing under a tree and expressed gratitude, saying, "Dad, thank you. There are miracles in the world!"

The search operation involved over 150 volunteers from United Hatzalah, including the national drone unit, off-road vehicles, motorcycles, ambulances, and foot teams, who combed the area by air, land, and sea. Yuval was found dehydrated but in good health just hours before the start of the Sabbath.

Yuval's mother spoke emotionally to him over the phone, telling him she missed him and was waiting with a popsicle, promising to hug and kiss him soon. Yossi Amar, commander of the drone unit at United Hatzalah, highlighted the large-scale effort and expressed relief at the positive outcome.

The search and rescue operation demonstrated a significant community and emergency response effort, culminating in the safe recovery of the missing child after a dramatic day of searching.