Netanyahu appoints Military Secretary Roman Gofman as next Mossad chief

The Prime Minister's Office confirmed on Thursday that Major-General Roman Gofman, currently serving as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Military Secretary, has been chosen to take over as the next head of the Mossad. Gofman will succeed David Barnea, who has held the position since 2021, with the transition expected to take place in June of next year.

In an official statement, the Prime Minister's Office shared that after reviewing multiple candidates, Netanyahu decided to appoint Gofman as the new director of the Israeli Intelligence and Special Operations Agency. The Prime Minister's Office further explained that Gofmans credentials are extensive. He has had a distinguished military career, including serving as a fighter and commander in the Armored Corps. He also held the position of battalion commander in the 75th Battalion of the 7th Brigade and has experience in the 36th Division, Etzion Brigade, and the 7th Brigade.

Furthermore, Gofman commanded the 210th Division and the National Ground Forces Training Center. He also served as the Head of Staff for COGAT, where his leadership skills were widely recognized. Gofman has been fulfilling his role as Military Secretary to Netanyahu since May 2024. His dedication to national security has been evident, especially during the recent outbreak of the Israel-Hamas War. The Prime Minister's Office highlighted his bravery, noting that he personally fought against Hamas militants in the Western Negev, where he sustained severe injuries.

Gofmans selection marks a break from Mossads usual succession process. While some had expected another candidate, referred to as "A," to be chosen, Gofmans appointment has come as a surprise. The Prime Ministers choice is unconventional, as Gofman had only recently been promoted to Major-General, making him a less senior officer than those typically considered for this high-profile role. Moreover, when an outsider is selected for the position, it is customary for the individual to have served in senior military roles at various locations, which is not the case with Gofman. Despite these irregularities, his leadership qualities, including creativity, discretion, and strategic insight, played a crucial role in his selection.