The Tikvah Podcast

Yossi Melman on Israel’s Most Famous Spy: What we learn from the Eli Cohen files

May 23, 2025
Yossi Melman, a prominent Haaretz reporter and an expert on Israeli intelligence, delves into the life and legacy of Eli Cohen, Israel's most celebrated spy. He shares fascinating insights into how Cohen infiltrated Syrian politics by adopting a new identity, showcasing the art of social engineering. Melman discusses the implications of recently uncovered documents that reveal Cohen's daring missions and tragic end. He also highlights the ongoing challenges in Israeli intelligence, emphasizing the need to balance digital signals with human insights, inspired by Cohen’s exceptional legacy.
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ANECDOTE

Eli Cohen's Early Life and Recruitment

  • Eli Cohen was an Egyptian Jew who emigrated to Israel in 1957 amid regional tensions.
  • He was recruited and trained by Israeli intelligence to assume a Syrian businessman identity for espionage.
ANECDOTE

Cohen's Deep Cover in Syria

  • Cohen established himself in Damascus as a wealthy Syrian businessman and gained access to top Ba'ath Party officials.
  • He lavishly spent money to entertain and befriend key Syrian military and political figures.
INSIGHT

Impact of Cohen's Intelligence Gathering

  • Cohen gathered extensive intelligence on Syrian military fortifications, weapon shipments, and political instability.
  • His reports greatly enhanced Israel's strategic understanding of Syria before 1967.
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