Missing in the mists of Meron: The search for 5 lost Israelis continues

In the shadow of ancient Mount Meron, where mystics once meditated and pilgrims still pray, searchers gathered Wednesday with a grim purpose: finding answers for five families whose loved ones seemed to vanish into thin air.

The Israel Dog Unit, leading specialized search dogs through caves and thickets, launched this latest effort to solve a string of disappearances that has haunted this region for years. Each case represents a life interrupted, a family left wondering.

There's 16-year-old Moishe Kleinerman, who disappeared near the tomb of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai in 2020. Nine-year-old Hymanut Kassaou, gone since last March near the holy city of Tzfat. Moshe Ilovitch, 37, missing since 2019. Rafael Haim Hadad, 60, and David Israel Padida, 28 – all vanished in this region steeped in both spirituality and mystery.

The searchers, including police and emergency responders, methodically combed through hiding spots and dense vegetation. But this wasn't just another search operation. For the families who joined, each step through the rugged terrain carried the weight of years of uncertainty, each cave explored held both dread and hope.

"We pray along with all of Israel for good news," the Israel Dog Unit said. But for now, the mists of Meron keep their secrets.

Arutz Sheva contributed to this article.