Israeli police are searching for a swimmer feared to have been attacked by a shark off the coast near Hadera.

The area, known for its population of endangered dusky and sandbar sharks, draws crowds who often swim near or even interact with the sharks, despite repeated warnings from conservation groups.

The missing man reportedly entered the water to swim with the sharks during a busy holiday week.

Authorities have since closed the beach as the search continues, CBS News has reported.

Environmental groups are urging stricter safety measures to prevent future incidents, warning that human-shark interactions in the area have become increasingly dangerous.

Written by B.C. Begley