Shock Retirement
Spy Master Resigns: Mossad Chief David Barnea to Step Down, Who Will Take His Place?
Mossad Director David Barnea has requested to resign in June, despite the option for an extension, triggering a high-stakes selection process for the next spy chief between two internal agency figures and the Prime Minister’s Military Secretary.
The Director of the Mossad, David Barnea (known as Dedi Barnea), has requested to conclude his tenure and step down from his role leading the intelligence agency this coming June. Barnea reportedly informed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of his intention, triggering the commencement of the search for the next head of the Mossad.
Barnea’s decision to leave comes despite the option of seeking an extension to his term. His tenure has spanned five years marked by major achievements, including the notable “Pager Operation” against Hezbollah and the agency’s management of the covert operations against Iran, particularly during and after the recent war. Following his resignation, Barnea is expected to step away from the security sector, at least initially, to return to the business world.
Top Contenders for the Role
The process to select Barnea's successor has already begun, with three main contenders emerging for the prestigious and powerful position. The candidates include:
Netanyahu is expected to soon initiate the formal procedure for choosing the next Mossad chief, though at this stage, all options are considered open. The final selection will involve a series of comprehensive assessments and interviews personally conducted by the Prime Minister. Once the decision is made, an organized transition period will be put in place to ensure a seamless handover of the agency’s critical duties.
Barnea’s Legacy
Barnea's leadership has been defined by high-stakes operations. His five-year term has included several significant covert missions executed deep within hostile territories. Most recently, his tenure has been inextricably linked to the events of October 7 and the subsequent war, particularly the agency’s surprising management of the shadow war against Iran.
Barnea’s stated intention to conclude his career and leave the security sector marks a substantial shift in the leadership of Israel's defense establishment. His departure necessitates a careful and decisive selection process by the Prime Minister to ensure continuity and leadership at the head of the nation’s foremost intelligence organization.