Israeli Boy Found Alive After Night Alone Under Tree Near Ashkelon Beach

Four-year-old Yuval Kogan was found alive near Nitzanim Beach, about 3.8 kilometers from where he was last seen near Hof Hofit in Ashkelon, after a full day of searching. Police Southern District Commander Chief Superintendent Haim Bublil said Yuval had wandered off thinking he was heading home, fell asleep under a tree during the night, and woke up in the morning. Yuval, described as a smart child, stayed in the shade which likely saved him. When he heard horses approaching, he called out to them, leading to his discovery.

Yuval was found wearing a green-and-white striped tank top by volunteers from ZAKA, including Noam Simchi, who recounted how they almost gave up before spotting the boy under bushes. Simchi described Yuval as exhausted and in shock but otherwise okay. Yuval told his father, "Dad, why didn’t you pick me up?" acknowledging his own father’s regret for sending him to explore alone. Yuval also mentioned hearing what he thought were flares during the night.

Yuval’s mother, Dina, expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved, saying, "You gave me my life back." Police Commissioner Danni Levi praised the unity shown during the search, calling Yuval a strong child who knew how to survive and signal for help. Hundreds of people, including police, rescue teams, firefighters, medics, and civilians, participated in the extensive search efforts.

The boy was last seen around 12:50 PM near Hof Hofit, and his disappearance was reported by his father. ZAKA volunteers used horses to access difficult terrain unreachable by vehicles, which was crucial in locating Yuval before nightfall. The rescue has been hailed as a national moment of unity and relief.