Mossad

Mossad – Michael Bar Zohar, Nissim Misshal
About the Author
Michael Bar-Zohar is a renowned historian, biographer, and novelist with a
focus on Israeli history, intelligence operations, and politics. He is well-known
for his biographies of David Ben-Gurion and Shimon Peres. Nissim Mishal is
one of Israel’s leading television personalities and journalists, bringing his
expertise in media and storytelling to this collaborative work.
About the Book
Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service provides a thrilling
and insightful journey into the world of the Mossad, Israel’s elite intelligence
agency. It is a compendium of the most daring missions and operations carried
out by Mossad, showcasing its triumphs, challenges, and significant impact on
world history and Israeli security.
About the Plot
The book is structured as a series of interconnected narratives, each focusing on
a distinct Mossad operation. From the dramatic capture of Adolf Eichmann in
Argentina in 1960 to the targeted assassination of key figures in international
terrorism, each chapter unveils a new mission. The authors delve into incidents
such as Operation Entebbe, the elimination of nuclear threats in Iraq and Syria,
and efforts to rescue Ethiopian Jews during Operation Solomon. The
storytelling combines historical precision with suspense, often reading like a
spy thriller rather than a traditional history book.
About the Characterisation
The characters in Mossad are real-life operatives, leaders, and targets. While the
authors do not deeply delve into personal backstories, they highlight the
courage, resourcefulness, and moral conflicts faced by the agents. Notable
figures include Mossad Director Meir Dagan, whose bold strategies shaped
many missions, and Rafi Eitan, who led the team that captured Eichmann. The
portrayal of these individuals emphasizes their dedication to national security,
often at great personal risk.
About the Themes
Key themes in the book include patriotism, the moral complexities of
espionage, the tension between justice and revenge, and the global struggle
against terrorism. The narrative raises ethical questions about state-sanctioned
assassinations and covert operations, inviting readers to ponder the fine line
between heroism and brutality.
Overall Analysis
Mossad is a meticulously researched and fast-paced book that balances

historical analysis with gripping storytelling. Bar-Zohar and Mishal’s clear,
engaging prose makes complex operations accessible to general readers without
sacrificing detail. The authors’ insider knowledge adds authenticity to the
narrative, while their journalistic approach ensures a balanced perspective.
Your Opinion
The book offers a riveting and informative account of Mossad's operations,
making it an essential read for enthusiasts of espionage and modern history. Its
vivid depictions of missions capture the ingenuity and risks of intelligence
work, though at times, the lack of in-depth character exploration may leave
readers wanting a more personal connection to the operatives.
Comparison with Similar Works
Compared to works like Legacy of Ashes by Tim Weiner or The Spy and the
Traitor by Ben Macintyre, Mossad focuses more on action-driven narratives
rather than comprehensive historical analysis. While Weiner critiques the
American CIA, Bar-Zohar and Mishal celebrate Mossad’s achievements with a
sense of national pride. Macintyre’s work offers more nuanced character
studies, whereas Mossad provides a broader survey of missions.
Appreciation/Critique
The book’s greatest strength lies in its ability to combine factual accuracy with
the tension and excitement of a spy novel. However, some critics argue that it
presents a one-sided perspective, largely celebrating Mossad’s successes
without critically examining its failures or ethical implications. A deeper
exploration of the human cost of espionage would enhance its impact.
In conclusion, Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service is a
compelling tribute to the ingenuity and bravery of Israel’s intelligence
operatives. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the shadowy world of
espionage and the dramatic history of Israel’s fight for survival and security.