Volunteers Reunite Four-Year-Old Yuval Kogen With Family After Coast Search

Four-year-old Yuval Kogen reunited with his family on Sunday at their home following his disappearance and subsequent rescue at Nitzanim Beach, about 10 kilometers from where he went missing in Ashkelon. Yuval met with Noam Simchi and Netanel Biton, the volunteers who found him, as well as ZAKA commander Avi Deri from the Lachish region.

Yuval's mother, Dina, expressed unwavering faith throughout the ordeal, stating, "I believed all along, and that is what happened. Thought creates reality. We believed, and there was no option other than a good ending." His father, Dima, urged the public to remain vigilant with their children, warning that "a few minutes of inattention can happen to the best of us." He also shared that the police commissioner encouraged him to continue outdoor activities with Yuval but emphasized constant supervision.

Noam Simchi praised the family for uniting the nation in the search for Yuval, calling him a hero who "did something that hasn't happened here in decades." Simchi also gave Yuval gifts, including beach toys, to help him overcome any fear of sand and continue playing.

The search began after Yuval's disappearance was reported on Friday, involving helicopters, marine police, divers, and rescue units combing the coastline and nearby areas. Numerous volunteers assisted in the extensive search. Yuval was ultimately found by a civilian riding a horse, Netanel Biton, who contacted emergency services upon discovery. The call recording revealed Biton was about 20 minutes horseback ride from the disappearance site and near search forces' vehicles. Authorities quickly confirmed the boy's identity and coordinated his safe return to his family.

The Kogen family dismissed conspiracy theories circulating online, emphasizing the importance of mutual support and community solidarity during the crisis.