Yuval Kogen Reunites with Teen Rescuers Who Found Him Near Nitzanim Reserve

Seventeen-year-old Yuval Kogen recently reunited with the two teenagers, Noam Simchi and Netanel Biton, who located him near the Nitzanim Nature Reserve after he went missing. The emotional meeting took place at the Kogen family home just two days after Yuval was found. Yuval had suffered from dehydration but has since recovered and returned to playing at home.

During the reunion, Noam and Netanel, accompanied by ZAKA Lachish commander Avi Deri, presented Yuval with gifts including a water gun, beach toys, and a watch to help him keep track of time. Noam also gave Yuval a Rabbi Nachman necklace, a protective amulet that Noam wore during the search. Yuval’s parents, Dina and Danny, expressed deep gratitude to the rescuers and the public for their extensive involvement in the search efforts.

Danny Kogen shared that just days before Yuval’s disappearance, the family returned from a vacation in Eilat, and on the desert road home, he had told Yuval stories of the biblical hero Samson and the Exodus from Egypt. The full coverage and emotional footage of the reunion are scheduled to air in the evening news broadcast.