Missing 4-year-old Yuval Kogan found alive after overnight search near Ashkelon

Four-year-old Yuval Kogan, who went missing from Hofit Beach, Ashkelon, on Thursday morning, July 24, 2026, was found alive and in stable condition on Friday afternoon. He was located by two horse riders near Nitzanim Beach after an extensive overnight search involving hundreds of police officers, volunteers from ZAKA, and emergency forces. The search utilized air, sea, and land resources, with efforts concentrated along the coastline from Ashkelon to Nitzanim. Yuval's mother, Dina Kogan, had expressed growing concern, stating, "Almost 24 hours have passed since my son was lost. I beg anyone who can come help, any possible rescuers, I'm asking everyone to come." President Isaac Herzog also contacted the family to offer support and was in communication with police and Shin Bet officials regarding the search.