Mossad's Intensified Operations Against Iran
In a recent report by Le Figaro, it has been revealed that the Israeli intelligence agency, Mossad, has significantly enhanced its surveillance and operational capabilities over the last two decades to combat Iran's nuclear ambitions. This escalation in activities was highlighted by the swift actions taken by Israel following the explosion of Hezbollah's communications, culminating in the targeted elimination of its leader, Hassan Nasrallah, shortly thereafter. The report underscores the sentiment expressed by former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who acknowledged Iran's vulnerability to Israeli intelligence operations.
Long-Term Strategy to Counter Iran's Nuclear Program
The Israeli intelligence community's approach to thwarting Iran's nuclear development has been a long-term strategy initiated during the tenure of former Mossad chief Meir Dagan. Dagan was resolute in his belief that Iranian leaders were intent on developing an atomic bomb, prompting a series of covert operations aimed at disrupting Iran's nuclear supply chains. These operations included sabotaging electrical supplies to key facilities and dissuading foreign scientists from aiding Iran. Despite these efforts, Israeli officials recognized the need for more aggressive tactics, leading to the implementation of electronic warfare and the recruitment of agents from various Iranian minority groups.
A History of Covert Operations and Psychological Warfare
The report details numerous covert operations attributed to Israeli intelligence between 2007 and 2011, including the assassinations of Iranian nuclear scientists and cyberattacks like the infamous Stuxnet virus, which incapacitated centrifuges at Iran's Natanz facility. Yossi Melman, an Israeli journalist and intelligence expert, notes that these operations serve not only to disrupt Iran's capabilities but also act as a form of psychological warfare, demonstrating Israel's extensive infiltration capabilities. The ongoing conflict between Israeli and Iranian forces remains complex, with both sides engaging in a battle of intelligence and counterintelligence, as evidenced by the assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in 2020, which was facilitated by Israeli intelligence sharing with U.S. forces.
