Netanyahu Appoints Military Secretary Roman Gofman as New Mossad Chief

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Thursday the appointment of his current Military Secretary, Major-General Roman Gofman, as the next head of the Mossad, Israel’s elite intelligence and special operations agency.

The decision follows a series of interviews with candidates, with Gofman’s appointment set to be reviewed by the Advisory Committee for Appointments to Senior Positions later today. He is expected to take office in June 2026, replacing outgoing Mossad Director David Barnea.

The Prime Minister’s Office highlighted Gofman’s extensive military background, describing him as a decorated commander and strategist. He has held key roles across the IDF’s Armored Corps, 36th Division, Etzion and 7th Brigades, and led both the 210th Division and the National Ground Forces Training Center. He also served as Head of Staff at COGAT.

Gofman was appointed as Military Secretary to the Prime Minister in May 2024. According to the PMO, he distinguished himself during the October 7 Hamas massacre, when he personally fought terrorists in the Western Negev and was severely wounded.

“Maj.-Gen. Gofman has demonstrated creativity, initiative, strategic thinking, absolute discretion, and exceptional leadership,” the statement said.

The appointment surprised many defense analysts, as Gofman is relatively junior compared to typical Mossad appointees and comes from outside the agency an uncommon practice. A different internal candidate, known only as “A”, was widely expected to succeed Barnea, reportedly enjoying support from within Mossad’s leadership ranks.

Netanyahu’s selection underscores a preference for loyalty and battlefield-tested leadership at a time of intense regional challenges and covert operations. Gofman’s appointment marks a rare break from tradition, placing a seasoned military tactician at the helm of Israel’s most secretive agency. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates.