Mossad: Israel’s National Intelligence Agency – Mission, Operations, and History

Introduction to Mossad

Mossad, Israel’s national intelligence agency, is renowned for its expertise in espionage, covert operations, and counter-terrorism. Established in 1949, Mossad has played a pivotal role in ensuring Israel’s national security.

Mission Statement

Mossad’s primary objective is to gather intelligence, conduct covert operations, and protect Israel from external threats. Its mission statement emphasizes the protection of Israeli citizens and interests worldwide.

Notable Operations of Mossad

1. Operation Wrath of God (1972): Avenging the Munich Olympics massacre
2. Operation Entebbe (1976): Rescuing Israeli hostages in Uganda
3. Operation Orchard (2007): Destroying Syria’s nuclear reactor
4. Assassination of Iranian nuclear scientists (2010-2012)
5. Capture of Adolf Eichmann (1960): Nazi war criminal abducted from Argentina

Organization and Structure of Mossad

Mossad is divided into eight departments:

1. Collections Department: Gathering intelligence
2. Operations Department: Conducting covert operations
3. Research Department: Analyzing intelligence
4. Technology Department: Developing surveillance technology
5. Liapson Department: Maintaining foreign relations
6. Psychological Warfare Department: Conducting propaganda operations
7. Special Operations Division: Conducting high-risk operations
8. Training Department: Training agents

History of Mossad

Mossad was formed on December 13, 1949, as the Central Institute for Coordination. Its early years were marked by bureaucratic conflicts, but it eventually became operational under the leadership of Isser Harel.

Mossad Controversies and Criticisms

1. Allegations of human rights abuses
2. Involvement in foreign elections
3. Espionage cases, such as Jonathan Pollard

Q. Who is the current head of Mossad?
David Barnea

FAQs about Mossad

Q. What does Mossad stand for?

A. Mossad is Hebrew for “Institute for Intelligence and Special Operations.”

Q. How does Mossad recruit agents?

A. Through military service, academic institutions, and professional network.

Additional Facts about Mossad

1. Mossad has a specialized unit for cyber warfare.
2. Mossad operates in over 100 countries worldwide.
3. Mossad’s motto is “By Way of Deception, Thou Shalt Do War.”

Sources

1. “Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service” by Michael Bar-Zohar and Nissim Mishal
2. “The Mossad: Israel’s Secret Intelligence Service” by Dennis Eisenberg, Uri Dan, and Eli Landau

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