Ask Haviv Anything Episode 40: You still need real life spies to win wars, with Yossi Cohen
Sep 4, 2025
Yossi Cohen, the former director of Mossad, shares intriguing insights from his time leading Israel's intelligence agency. He discusses the ongoing conflict with Iran and the significance of human intelligence over tech-based espionage. Cohen addresses the implications of the Gaza crisis, the complexities of hostage recovery, and the urgent need for accountability in Israel's leadership. He also emphasizes the necessity of local governance in Gaza to combat extremism, revealing a mix of strategic foresight and hope for reform.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Rebuilding Gaza Requires New Local Leadership
- Cohen argues Gaza can be rebuilt but only if Hamas is removed from control and donors' aid is used properly.
- He highlights that past donor funds were diverted to tunnels and military uses, not civilian infrastructure.
HUMINT Remains Irreplaceable
- Cohen credits Mossad's long-term human intelligence for enabling major operations like the Iran strikes.
- He views HUMINT as irreplaceable by signals intelligence or cyber alone for deep penetration.
Two-Decade Build-Up Led To Iran Operation
- Cohen describes the 'magnificent 12 days in Iran' as the culmination of 20–25 years of intelligence work.
- He calls the operation a dream come true and credits long preparation across Mossad and the IDF.