Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirmed on Tuesday evening that an Israeli citizen was kidnapped while visiting Ethiopia.
‘’Last night we received a report about an Israeli national kidnapped in Ethiopia in the Gondar region," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Without identifying his name, the ministry added that the "consular department is in contact with his family members, and also acts vis-a-vis the Interpol. Israel's consul in Ethiopia is in contact with local security authorities in order to bring his release soon and in good health."
Israel’s public broadcaster KAN reported that the person kidnapped is of Ethiopian origin. The 79-year-old Israeli was kidnapped during a trip to Ethiopia a few days ago in the Gondar region. He had sent a voice message to his family members, pleading, "Help me. I'm in the middle of the jungle. It's pouring rain," KAN reported.
He then sent another message, saying, "I should have come on Sunday and I'll probably stay here. Such a fate should not even be bestowed on one’s enemies." A picture of him handcuffed was attached to the message.
