Father of Missing Ethiopian-Israeli Girl Criticizes State's Response Compared to Rescue of Another Child

Tespia Kasao, father of 4-year-old Haimanot Kasao who disappeared from a reception center in Safed 882 days ago, expressed deep pain and frustration over the Israeli state's handling of his daughter's case. He contrasted it with the swift recovery of 4-year-old Yuval Kogan, found within about 24 hours, saying the difference in response highlights systemic discrimination. Kasao accused the authorities of racial bias, noting that his family, as Ethiopian immigrants with limited Hebrew and resources, did not receive the same level of support and technological effort as Yuval’s family, who mobilized extensive resources and connections.

Kasao also criticized the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) for not being involved in Haimanot’s investigation, despite the government legal advisor approving their participation in January. He said officials claimed there was no suspicion of nationalist motives, which he disputes, emphasizing that Haimanot’s abduction from a public institution linked to the Jewish Agency and Ministry of Absorption should have warranted Shin Bet involvement. Kasao recounted meeting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who promised to follow up but never did.

The father further condemned the police’s inadequate investigation, describing poor communication and lack of action even when new information was provided. He praised the public’s support but called on the government to apply the same search efforts for Haimanot as were used for Yuval. Kasao believes his daughter was kidnapped and remains in captivity, urging the public to pressure authorities to include Shin Bet in the case and intensify the search.

Kasao described the family’s ongoing anguish, saying the uncertainty has left them in a state between life and death. He stressed that Israel belongs to all its citizens regardless of skin color and demanded equal treatment for his daughter. "There is no essential difference between them," he said, referring to the two children, "we are all citizens of the same state."