Full Breakdown
Four-Year-Old Yuval Kogan Found After More Than 24 Hours Missing on Ashkelon Coast
7/24/2026, 8:03:06 PM
Missing Child Found After 24-Hour Search
On the afternoon of July 24, 2026, four-year-old Yuval Kogan was located alive on Nitzanim Beach, roughly a day after he disappeared from the Hofit Beach area of Ashkelon on the preceding Thursday morning. Two horse riders participating in the volunteer search discovered the child, who was reported to be awake and in stable condition.
Search Operations and Resources
The search mobilized hundreds of police officers, Israel Police’s Marine Unit, divers, the Air Unit, and civilian volunteers from the ZAKA Missing Persons Unit. Helicopters, drones, and maritime assets were deployed, and the effort spanned the shoreline from northern Ashkelon to the settlement of Nitzanim. Technological resources, including aerial drones, were used throughout the night of July 23, 2026 and into the following day. Volunteer teams employed standard search-and-rescue equipment alongside emergency responders.
Statements from Family and Authorities
Dina Kogan, the child’s mother, told media outlets that she feared a kidnapping and urged nationwide assistance, emphasizing her own role as a pediatrician caring for other children. The Missing Persons Unit in the Southern Region announced that the extensive, nonstop searches had ultimately led to the safe recovery of Yuval Kogan. Police described the boy as a slim-built child with brown hair, last seen wearing a green T-shirt.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
One outlet reported that, as of Friday, search teams had found no trace of the boy, indicating the investigation was still ongoing. Another outlet confirmed his discovery later that same day. The discrepancy reflects a timing gap between the initial Friday update and the subsequent rescue, leaving a brief period during which the child’s status was uncertain. No definitive information has been provided regarding the circumstances of his disappearance or whether foul play was involved.
Ongoing Follow-Up
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the disappearance, and the public is urged to report any relevant information to the Israel Police emergency hotline or the Ashkelon Police Station (08-677-1440).
