No. 30: Roman Gofman: A new Mossad chief for a changing confrontation with Iran

Roman Gofman assumed leadership of the Mossad on June 2, following a legal challenge to his appointment. He is expected to focus on the evolving confrontation with Iran, including its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, and counter-terrorism efforts in Syria and globally. Gofman recognizes the challenge of balancing short-term kinetic operations and spying with longer-term regime change efforts. He has made personnel changes, including firing the deputy chief and heads of analysis and the Iran desk, believing their previous regime change plans were inadequate. Gofman reportedly favors a more aggressive, accelerated version of the “death by a thousand cuts” strategy against Iran, aiming to capitalize on dynamic opportunities. He views himself as nonpartisan and committed to the Mossad's mission, regardless of the political leadership.