In a dramatic move just days after taking office, newly appointed Mossad Director Roman Gofman has removed the agency’s deputy director from his position, signaling the beginning of a major leadership reshuffle at Israel’s premier intelligence service.

According to a statement issued by the Mossad through the Prime Minister’s Office, Gofman informed the official, identified only as “A.,” that his tenure as deputy director would be coming to an end. The statement added that the new Mossad chief intends to appoint a replacement from within the organization.

The Mossad emphasized that Gofman expressed deep appreciation for A.’s more than two decades of service and his substantial contributions to Israel’s national security.

During his 22 years with the agency, A. served on the front lines of some of the Mossad’s most sensitive operational activities. He held senior positions in three operational divisions, commanded two of them, and played a leading role in numerous groundbreaking missions. In recognition of his achievements, he was awarded the Israel Security Prize on five separate occasions.

The statement further noted that A. wished Gofman success in his new role and conveyed his readiness to continue making his experience and expertise available to the Mossad and the State of Israel whenever needed.

Officials described the move as part of Gofman’s effort to assemble the senior leadership team that will work alongside him as he confronts the strategic challenges and operational objectives facing the organization in the coming years.

Military correspondent Doron Kadosh of Army Radio characterized the decision as highly unusual, particularly given that it comes only days after Gofman assumed leadership of the agency and while he is still becoming familiar with its operations.

Kadosh pointed to a contrasting example within the Shin Bet. When David Zini recently took over as head of the domestic security service, he asked then-Deputy Director “Sh.” to remain in his position for several months to assist with the transition and orientation process. Sh. ultimately stayed on as deputy chief of the Shin Bet for approximately three months—after previously serving as acting director—before deciding to step down.

The swift dismissal of the Mossad’s second-in-command underscores Gofman’s determination to quickly shape the agency’s top leadership and could signal broader changes within the organization in the weeks ahead.

{Matzav.com}