ZAKA Volunteer Finds Missing Boy Yovel After Nearly Giving Up During Search

Noam Simchi, a ZAKA volunteer, located four-year-old Yovel Kogan after more than 24 hours of intense searching. Simchi recounted to President Isaac Herzog how a navigation error led him to spot Yovel sitting by a tree in the dunes, a moment that transformed the search effort. He described the difficult hours when the team nearly gave up and returned home, but the wrong turn ultimately saved the boy. Simchi expressed gratitude to the Israeli people and emphasized the importance of loving every Jew regardless of religious background, attributing his strength to his faith as a student of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov.

Police Chief Danny Levi provided additional details, explaining that Yovel was found in Nitzanim, a considerable distance for a small child, especially under harsh conditions. Levi said Yovel had tried to walk toward what he thought was his home, likely fell asleep under a tree during the night, and woke up in the morning. The boy’s intelligence and decision to stay in a shaded spot were credited with saving his life. The discovery brought relief and joy to the family and the entire nation.

President Herzog initially asked Simchi to share about himself, leading to a reflection on faith and unity. The successful rescue highlighted the dedication of volunteers and authorities working together in a tense and emotional search operation in Ashkelon and surrounding areas.