Shas MK Eli Yishai on Wednesday 2 Rosh Chodesh Elul arrived at the Mount Herzl command center, from where Zaka and other officials are overseeing the search for missing US yeshiva talmid, 23-year-old Aaron Sofer.

Yishai was briefed by officials, who explained the ongoing search and the status of the case after five days.

Sofer disappeared during an erev Shabbos hike in the Jerusalem Forest. His trail simply vanished. Police, Zaka, Ichud Hatzalah and hundreds of volunteers have been involved in the ongoing search. A police helicopter was also used in efforts to locate the missing Lakewood yeshiva bochur who is in Eretz Yisrael.

Sofer’s parents have arrived in Israel and they have announced a 100,000 NIS reward for information leading to his whereabouts. Officials involved in the search are trying to remain optimistic but there are growing fears for the young man’s life with each passing day.

The ISA (Israel Security Agency – Shin Bet) and other agencies are involved in the search, as is the FBI. All scenarios are being probed, including a terrorist kidnapping, getting lost and other possibilities.

Anyone with information is asked to phone 100 or 02-539-1520. The tzibur is asked to continue davening for the safe return of Aaron ben Chulda.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)