Honestly with Bari Weiss

Inside the Mossad

198 snips
Sep 23, 2025
Yossi Cohen, the former head of Mossad, shares riveting stories from his 38-year career in Israeli intelligence. He recounts daring operations, including the audacious theft of Iran's secret nuclear documents and an AI-controlled assassination. Cohen discusses his unique undercover life, the emotional toll on operatives, and the complexities of Israeli diplomacy. He reflects on recent intelligence failures and the ongoing challenges in the Middle East, providing insights that blend fact with the thrill of a spy novel.
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ANECDOTE

Early Recruitment And Undercover Life

  • Yossi Cohen was recruited to Mossad at 22 after military service and two years of training led to early certification as an operative.
  • He lived an undercover life with many identities and significant daily personal risk.
INSIGHT

Mossad's Core Mission

  • Mossad operates primarily outside Israel to collect intelligence and disrupt threats abroad.
  • It complements Shin Bet (internal) and military intelligence by working behind enemy lines globally.
ADVICE

Craft And Live Your Cover Story

  • Build a convincing cover story tailored to the target's expectations and habits.
  • Practice the cover deeply because it is the primary shield between you and exposure.
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