Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service by Michael Bar-Zohar and Nissim Mishal
Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service by Michael Bar-Zohar and Nissim Mishal is a book that provides an in-depth look at some of the most notable missions carried out by Mossad, the national intelligence agency of Israel. It covers a wide range of operations, from the capture of Adolf Eichmann to counter-terrorism efforts and espionage activities. The authors, Michael Bar-Zohar and Nissim Mishal, use a mix of firsthand accounts, historical analysis, and storytelling to bring these missions to life.
About the Authors:
Michael Bar-Zohar
Michael Bar-Zohar is a renowned historian, novelist, and biographer, particularly known for his works on Israeli history and the military. Born in Bulgaria in 1938, he immigrated to Israel in 1948. Bar-Zohar's academic background includes degrees in economics and international relations from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He later pursued a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Paris.
Bar-Zohar has authored numerous books, including biographies of David Ben-Gurion, Israel's first Prime Minister, and Shimon Peres, another significant Israeli statesman. His works often focus on the intricacies of Israeli politics, military strategies, and intelligence operations. Apart from his writing, Bar-Zohar has also had a career in politics, serving as a member of the Knesset (Israeli parliament) and as a paratrooper in the Israel Defense Forces.
Nissim Mishal
Nissim Mishal is a distinguished Israeli journalist, television personality, and author. Born in 1949 in Israel, Mishal has had a prolific career in the media, becoming one of the most recognizable faces in Israeli journalism. He served as the Director-General of the Israel Broadcasting Authority and has hosted numerous current affairs programs.
Mishal's journalistic career has given him a front-row seat to many of the pivotal events in Israeli history. His deep understanding of the political landscape and his investigative skills have earned him a reputation as a credible and insightful commentator on Israeli affairs. In addition to his television work, Mishal has authored several books, often collaborating with experts in various fields to provide in-depth analysis of Israeli history and security.
Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service [BOOK SUMMARY]
"Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service" by Michael Bar-Zohar and Nissim Mishal is a comprehensive account of the most significant and daring missions undertaken by Mossad, the intelligence agency of Israel. The book provides an insider's perspective on the covert operations that have shaped Israeli history and impacted global affairs.
The narrative begins with the capture of Adolf Eichmann, a key architect of the Holocaust, who was found hiding in Argentina in 1960. This mission set a high standard for Mossad's future operations, demonstrating their commitment to justice and their unparalleled skill in espionage.
The authors recount the dramatic rescue of hostages from Entebbe Airport in Uganda in 1976. The meticulous planning and execution of this mission exemplify Mossad's expertise in counter-terrorism. Another significant mission discussed is the assassination of key figures in the Black September organization responsible for the Munich Olympics massacre in 1972.
The book also explores Mossad's efforts in gathering intelligence on Israel's enemies. For instance, the story of Eli Cohen, a Mossad agent who infiltrated the highest echelons of the Syrian government in the 1960s, showcases the agency's strategic depth and the personal sacrifices made by its agents.
A considerable portion of the book is dedicated to Mossad's role in ensuring Israel's security through preemptive strikes and sabotage. This includes the destruction of Iraq's Osirak nuclear reactor in 1981 and the elimination of Iranian nuclear scientists to thwart Iran's nuclear ambitions.
"Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service" also delves into lesser-known operations, such as the clandestine efforts to bring Jewish immigrants from hostile territories to Israel. The book highlights Operation Moses, which facilitated the airlift of Ethiopian Jews in the 1980s, demonstrating Mossad's humanitarian side.
Throughout the book, Bar-Zohar and Mishal provide detailed accounts of the planning, execution, and aftermath of each mission. They also reflect on the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by Mossad agents, offering a balanced perspective on the agency's actions.
Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service [BOOK REVIEW]
"Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service" by Michael Bar-Zohar and Nissim Mishal is an enthralling and meticulously researched book that offers readers a rare glimpse into the secretive world of one of the most renowned intelligence agencies. The authors, with their deep knowledge and access to inside information, craft a narrative that is both informative and engaging.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its ability to balance thrilling storytelling with historical accuracy. Each mission is presented with a level of detail that immerses readers in the high-stakes world of espionage. The capture of Adolf Eichmann, for instance, reads like a suspense novel, yet it is rooted in factual precision.
The authors succeed in humanizing the Mossad agents, highlighting their bravery, dedication, and the personal costs of their profession. The story of Eli Cohen, in particular, is both inspiring and tragic, illustrating the profound impact an individual can have on national security.
However, the book is not without its flaws. Some readers might find the authors' portrayal of Mossad to be overly sympathetic. While the book does address the moral ambiguities and ethical questions surrounding some operations, it often leans towards justifying Mossad's actions in the name of national security.
Additionally, the narrative occasionally jumps between different time periods and missions, which can be disorienting. A more chronological approach might have provided a clearer historical context for readers unfamiliar with the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Despite these minor criticisms, "Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service" is a compelling read for anyone interested in intelligence operations, Israeli history, or international relations. Bar-Zohar and Mishal have crafted a vivid portrayal of Mossad's most daring and impactful missions, offering readers an unparalleled look at the agency's contributions to global security.
BOOK DETAILS:
TITLE: Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service
AUTHOR: Michael Bar-Zohar, Nissim Mishal
GENRE: History | Nonfiction | Espionage | Politics | War | Biography | Military Fiction | Israel | Thriller | Jewish
FORMAT: Kindle | Audiobook | Hardcover | Paperback
RATING: 4 of 5 Stars!
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