Mossad Pick Gofman Faces Backlash from Former Intelligence Operative

Major-General Roman Gofman’s surprise appointment as the next head of Mossad is drawing serious backlash from Ori Elmakayes, a former intelligence asset who claims the general abandoned him during a classified influence operation. Elmakayes, who was arrested as a teen by the Shin Bet after executing unapproved psychological warfare campaigns against enemy targets, accused Gofman of endangering his life and later denying all involvement.

Elmakayes, now in his twenties, detailed on social media how he was recruited to run disinformation via Telegram channels, acting under the direct guidance of IDF intelligence officers serving under Gofman. He alleges that after being exposed, detained, and tortured, Gofman denied all responsibility, leaving him to face espionage charges alone. Though ultimately released and cleared, Elmakayes says the psychological trauma endures.

“This man is a danger to the State of Israel,” Elmakayes wrote. “If he abandoned me a minor involved at the military’s request he can abandon Mossad agents in the field.”

According to Elmakayes and his attorney, Orit Hayoun, the military never formally authorized the operation nor protected the young handler. Despite the severity of the allegations, neither Gofman nor his subordinates faced any criminal investigation. An internal IDF review issued only a reprimand.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Gofman’s selection Thursday, calling him a courageous, strategic leader with field-tested judgment. Gofman currently serves as the prime minister’s military secretary and is expected to replace Mossad chief David Barnea in June 2026.

Hayoun warned the appointment signals a “deep contempt for human life,” saying her client was betrayed by the very system he sought to help. “What was done to Ori is a moral and professional failure. Gofman is unfit to lead one of Israel’s most sensitive and powerful institutions.”

The PMO has not commented on the allegations. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates.