Israel High Court Clears Gofman as Mossad Chief in 2-1 Vote, Barnea Orders Full Support
Updated
Updated · The Jerusalem Post · Jun 4
Israel High Court Clears Gofman as Mossad Chief in 2-1 Vote, Barnea Orders Full Support
3 articles · Updated · The Jerusalem Post · Jun 4
Summary
A 2-1 High Court ruling gave Gofman final approval to take over the Mossad, ending the formal fight over his appointment.
Barnea, who had publicly opposed Gofman over the Elkamayes affair, immediately sent a letter and delivered a speech directing the agency to back the incoming chief fully.
Sources close to Barnea said his support is genuine and predicted no mass resignations, with only the Tevel division head expected to leave.
That handover closes Barnea’s five-year tenure, during which officials credit him with expanding Mossad from limited covert actions to simultaneous operations across Iran, Lebanon and overseas fronts.
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Inside the Controversial Rise of Roman Gofman: Mossad’s 14th Director and the Elmakayes Affair
Overview
Roman Gofman's appointment as the 14th Director of Mossad followed a long and heated process, marked by strong opposition from outgoing director David Barnea and deep internal dissent. Gofman, who immigrated from Belarus and built a notable military career, faced criticism for his role in a controversial psychological warfare operation where he authorized a minor to act as an undercover agent and leaked information to hostile actors. This decision led to a military censure and cast doubt on his judgment, with no one viewing his actions positively. These controversies have shaped public debate and raised questions about his leadership and Mossad's future direction.