Brother of Freed Gaza Hostage Vanishes: Ashagre Mengistu Missing Two Days

Ashagre Mengistu, the 33-year-old brother of Avraham Mengistu who was held captive by Hamas terrorists in Gaza for nearly ten years, has been missing since Sunday morning after leaving his mother's home in Ma'ale Adumim. Israeli police announced the disappearance on Tuesday and appealed to the public for assistance, concentrating search efforts in northern Israel following indications that Ashagre was seen in the area recently.

Ashagre, who resides in Ashkelon, left his mother's residence early Sunday and contact with him was lost immediately afterward. Police described him as medium build, approximately 1.75 meters tall, with black hair, and a native speaker of Amharic. His last known clothing is unknown. Authorities urged anyone with information to contact the national emergency line 100 or the Ashkelon police station directly.

Avraham Mengistu's harrowing story remains fresh in public memory. Born in Ethiopia, he immigrated to Israel at age five during Operation Solomon with his family of nine siblings. Raised in challenging conditions in a small, overcrowded Ashkelon apartment, Avraham's mental health deteriorated significantly after his eldest brother Michael died at 29 from anorexia. He became reclusive and began taking long solitary walks across Israel, worrying his family repeatedly.

On September 7, 2014, following an argument with his mother, Avraham walked toward the Gaza border. Ignoring soldiers' calls to stop, he crossed into Gaza and was immediately taken captive by Hamas terrorists. For nearly a decade he was held incommunicado until Hamas released a propaganda video in January 2023 showing him speaking broken Hebrew. Israeli officials quickly authenticated it and confirmed he remained alive under Hamas control. Avraham returned to Israel in February 2025 during Phase One of the hostage release deal. He was discharged from Ichilov Hospital in July after five months of medical and psychological care.

The disappearance of Ashagre adds another layer of anguish to a family already scarred by loss and prolonged trauma. Police continue active searches while urging the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings promptly. The case has drawn widespread attention given Avraham's high-profile return and the family's enduring hardships. Authorities emphasize sensitivity toward the relatives as efforts focus on locating Ashagre safely and reuniting him with loved ones.