The emergency crews of Greece are in their second week of a vigorous rescue mission on Mount Olympus in their attempt to trace out Ami Yogev, a 46-year-old hiker who disappeared while climbing the highest mountain of the country on September 20, 2026. Mount Olympus Rescue Effort
The search operation received a major boost with the arrival of a special search team that was sent by a volunteer group in Israel named United Hatzalah. Alongside them were working Greek Fire and Rescue Services, police officials, military personnel, and search teams from Magnus International Search and Rescue.
Yogev, a resident of Modi’in in central Israel, was last heard from after sending photographic updates to his family while ascending toward the 2,917-meter summit. A local mountain guide subsequently reported encountering Yogev near the peak with a bandaged leg. Although the hiker indicated he had experienced a minor slip, he declined assistance and stated his intention to begin his descent. Contact was completely lost shortly thereafter.
Search teams located Yogev’s rental vehicle parked at the base of the trail, containing his personal belongings, computer, and luggage intact. Ground search parties and specialized thermal-drone operators are currently focusing their sweeps on steep ravines and treacherous slopes surrounding the summit area, where unpredictable mountain weather and sheer drop-offs present severe hazards.
Because Yogev departed for Greece without active travel insurance, his family launched an urgent crowdfunding campaign to cover the escalating costs of private search teams and specialized drone deployments. Israel’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that the Israeli consul in Athens and the Department for Israelis Abroad remain in continuous coordination with Greek authorities to maintain search operations.
Mount Olympus, renowned for its 52 peaks and treacherous ridge paths, poses severe navigational challenges for single trekkers. Rescuers emphasize that ground teams face critical time constraints as they continue searching remote mountain sectors in hopes of uncovering new leads. Israel Times
