Mossad

Mossad, short for HaMossad leModi'in uleTafkidim Meyuḥadim, is Israel's national intelligence agency. Its primary roles are intelligence collection, covert operations, and counterterrorism, with a focus on foreign targets. Mossad operates mainly outside Israel and is part of the Israeli Intelligence Community, alongside Shin Bet (internal security) and Aman (military intelligence). The agency is headquartered in Tel Aviv and reports to the Prime Minister.

Mossad was established in 1949 to coordinate overseas intelligence in the early Jewish state. It has conducted a range of operations abroad, and its activities have shaped Israel's security policy. Notable episodes include the Lavon Affair in the 1950s, which led to organizational reforms, and the 1970s campaigns in response to the Munich massacre, including the Wrath of God operations. In 1976, Mossad supported the Israeli operation to rescue hostages at Entebbe, Uganda.

The director, appointed by the government with cabinet confirmation, heads the agency and oversees directorates focused on collection, covert action, technology, and analysis. Mossad uses human intelligence (HUMINT), signals intelligence (SIGINT), cyber capabilities, and foreign liaison to pursue its objectives.

Beyond counterterrorism and intelligence gathering, Mossad has been involved in operations aimed at disrupting adversaries' nuclear and weapons programs and other militant networks, although many details remain classified. The agency’s work has had a significant influence on regional security dynamics and global intelligence-sharing.

Mossad operates under Israeli law and parliamentary oversight, but its actions are frequently debated in terms of legality, ethics, and transparency. Critics point to extraterritorial operations and occasional civilian harm, while supporters emphasize national security considerations.