Netanyahu’s Surprise Appointment of Gen. Roman Goffman as Mossad Chief Sparks Internal Uproar

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s unexpected decision to appoint General Roman Goffman as the next head of the Mossad has triggered sharp criticism within the intelligence community and raised concerns about internal resignations. The announcement was made earlier Thursday during a cabinet meeting.

According to a report by Kan News, outgoing Mossad chief Dedi Barnea had recommended two senior Mossad officials—known only as A. and V.—as candidates to succeed him. Despite the deviation from his recommendations, Barnea reportedly chose not to resist the political decision and instead focused on ensuring the appointment would not harm the organization.

Criticism Over Lack of Intelligence Experience

Several former senior Mossad officials condemned the appointment, arguing that Goffman lacks an intelligence background, lacks experience in organizational management, and has no direct familiarity with the Mossad’s core operational work. Some estimated that the decision could lead to a wave of resignations among high-ranking personnel.

Goffman, a career IDF officer, has served in numerous operational and command roles, including:

• Armored Corps fighter and commander

• Commander of the 75th Battalion, 7th Armored Brigade

• Senior officer in the Ga’ash Formation (36th Division)

• Positions in the Etzion and 7th Brigades

• Commander of the 210th “Havashan” Division

• Commander of the National Ground Training Center

• Head of the Government Operations Headquarters in the Territories

However, none of these involved intelligence leadership roles.

Controversial 2019 Case Resurfaces

Goffman is also associated with the controversial case of Uri Al-Makis, who was 17 when he was allegedly used in an IDF influence operation during Goffman’s command of Division 210.
Al-Makis was later arrested by the Shin Bet and charged with serious offenses relating to state security. After a year and a half, he was fully cleared, proving he had been acting under direction from Israeli intelligence elements who subsequently distanced themselves from the operation.

Al-Makis reacted strongly to Goffman’s appointment on X, writing:

“After using me and destroying my life, Roman Goffman had no problem disavowing me… Such a person should not serve as head of the Mossad under any circumstances.”

He added that Goffman’s appointment “is a real danger to the security of the State of Israel.”

Prime Minister’s Office and IDF Defend Appointment

The Prime Minister’s Office praised Goffman’s “creativity, initiative, cunning, and deep knowledge of the enemy,” citing his actions on October 7, when he confronted Hamas terrorists in the Gaza Envelope and was seriously wounded.

IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi (Zamir)—speaking through his office—also welcomed the decision:

“Roman is a brave, professional, and experienced officer. I am convinced he will succeed in the face of the challenges facing the State of Israel.”

Outgoing Mossad chief Barnea congratulated Goffman and wished him success in leading the organization “during a historic period for Israel’s security.”

Barnea’s five-year term is scheduled to end in June.

Netanyahu’s Influence Over Mossad Leadership

Sources familiar with the internal process say Netanyahu has been heavily involved in shaping the Mossad’s senior leadership ahead of Barnea’s departure. He reportedly pushed to appoint A. as deputy head of the Mossad for several months, signaling a deeper political involvement in the agency’s top ranks.

The appointment of Goffman—an external, non-intelligence officer—to the organization’s highest position is widely seen as one of the most dramatic and controversial personnel decisions made within Israel’s intelligence community in recent years.