Former Mossad Spies Take to the Streets: Israeli Democracy at Risk
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Hashim Sheikh
- . August 1, 2023
- . Update: August 1, 2023 5:02 pm
Amir, a former Mossad spy with a solid devotion to his nation, is an unusual protester amid fiercely debated legislation that limits the Supreme Court of Israel’s authority. Every morning, Amir erects a protest stand with other former members of Israel’s Mossad spy agency to inform onlookers that their democracy is in danger.
The proposal, supported by the nationalist-religious coalition led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, seeks to restrict the Supreme Court’s ability to overturn laws deemed “unreasonable.” The first stage of the legislation was enacted last week despite months of demonstrations by hundreds of thousands of Israelis, igniting additional turmoil among the populace.
Along with other former Mossad agents, Amir has decided to speak out against the government’s judiciary reform. Amir admits that for 20 years, regardless of their political views, he had diligently served under several regimes, declining to give his real identity owing to his past hidden roles. He and others, however, have been compelled to take action due to the changes made by the current administration since they believe that the government has breached their agreement.
The fact that former Mossad agents participated in the demonstrations is significant because Mossad is known for playing a crucial role in helping Israel defeat Arab nations in war and conduct covert operations against its arch-enemy Iran. According to chat conversations viewed by Reuters, there are growing concerns within the agency, and some employees are considering early retirement. Former Mossad director Efraim Halevy claims that there are no signs that this dissatisfaction is impairing the organisation’s essential capabilities. The legislation, however, worries some Mossad personnel involved in the demonstrations that it may undermine Israel’s security system.
Israel’s adversaries in the Middle East are intently watching the unrest as it develops and considering how they may profit from it. Yossi Cohen is among the former Mossad directors who have expressed concern over Israel’s immediate national security, particularly in light of the growing Iranian threat on many fronts.
The participation of former Mossad spies in the demonstrations against the revamp of the Israeli judiciary illustrates the ingrained concerns about the possible effects on Israel’s security and reputation. The situation is still fluid and closely monitored inside and outside of Israel, with worries growing within the Mossad and implications being felt throughout the Middle East.
