Full Breakdown
Two Years Since Haymanut Kasau's Disappearance: A Call for Action
2/25/2026, 10:25:56 PM
Overview of the Disappearance
Nine-year-old Haymanut Kasau has been missing since February 25, 2024, when she was last seen on security camera footage at the Jewish Agency absorption center in Safed, Israel. Kasau, who immigrated from Ethiopia with her family in 2021, was distributing municipal election leaflets at the time of her disappearance. Despite extensive discussions and investigations, little progress has been made in the case, prompting her family and supporters to demand more action from the government.
Recent Developments and Government Response
On the second anniversary of her disappearance, the Knesset’s Committee for Immigration, Absorption, and Diaspora Affairs convened a special session to address the ongoing investigation. Committee chair Gilad Kariv expressed sorrow over the lack of progress, noting that this was the 15th discussion on the matter. The case has recently been transferred to the Lahav 433 Major Crimes Unit, but a representative indicated that the investigation is still in its initial stages.
Opposition Leader Yair Lapid has called for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to personally oversee the investigation, emphasizing the need for high-level attention to the case. Lapid stated, “The search for Haymanut must be conducted by the Prime Minister’s Office under Netanyahu’s personal supervision.” However, there has been little public acknowledgment from Netanyahu or other senior officials regarding the case on this significant anniversary.
Family's Plea and Public Activism
Haymanut's parents have been vocal in their frustration over the lack of progress. Tesfaye Kasau, her father, expressed his despair, stating, “I am ashamed of the state. My family has no tears left.” He has urged for a national campaign to raise awareness about his daughter, similar to those for hostages taken by Hamas. The family has requested that the case be transferred to the Shin Bet, Israel's internal security service, for its greater resources and capabilities.
Activists from the Standing Together movement have also mobilized, displaying signs across the country asking, “Where is Haymanut?” A protest is planned outside the Aliyah and Integration Ministry in Jerusalem to mark the anniversary and demand further action.
Criticism of Government Inaction
Critics, including MK Tzega Melaku from Netanyahu's Likud party, have expressed disappointment over the government's response. Melaku stated, “I regret that we have still not seen a government-led campaign to raise awareness about Haymanut’s disappearance.” The lack of significant governmental action has led to widespread frustration among the public and advocacy groups.
Conclusion
The case of Haymanut Kasau remains unresolved two years after her disappearance, with her family and supporters continuing to call for urgent action and accountability from the Israeli government. As the investigation progresses slowly, the community's demand for answers and justice for Haymanut grows stronger.
