National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir Leads Search Efforts for Missing 4-Year-Old in Ashkelon

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir arrived in Ashkelon on Friday morning to oversee the ongoing search for 4-year-old Yuval Kogen, who has been missing since the previous day. Upon arrival, Ben-Gvir held a situation assessment with commanders from the Southern District, the local police division, and other security forces involved in the search operations. He instructed to continue reinforcing the search efforts and to utilize all available resources of the Israel Police until Yuval is found.

Following the briefing, Ben-Gvir met with Yuval's parents to offer support and assured them that all security forces are committed to locating the child and bringing him home safely. The search continues extensively, with drones scanning the area overnight and large police units combing the region by air, land, and sea throughout the morning. The search operation includes the Shin Bet, police air units, marine patrols, volunteer divers, and other emergency responders.

So far, no leads have emerged. The police released a description of Yuval, noting he is slim with brown hair and was last seen wearing a green shirt near Hof Hofit beach. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any information to the police hotline or the Ashkelon police station. Yuval's mother, Dina Kogen, expressed fears that her son may have been abducted and called on the public to assist in the search. The family had been on the dunes near the beach, and Yuval disappeared after a brief moment out of sight. Security camera footage of Yuval was also released to aid the search.