The feared but respected Mossad, Israel’s top intelligence agency, has many accomplishments, from capturing Adolf Eichmann, one of the architects of the Holocaust, to decimating Syria’s nuclear program to the humanitarian effort Mivtza Moshe (Operation Moses) bringing Ethiopian Jews into Israel. Granted there is some top-secret things mixed in there as well they do not want the world to know, but here is a preview of some of the things this spy agency does within the Land of Israel:
Described as some today as possibly being entrenched in the Deep State based on its various operations on multiple continents, Mossad was created in December 1949 by Israel’s first Prime Minister, David Ben Gurion, shortly after the birth of the State of Israel. The organization was intended for intelligence operations outside of Israel, but today operates with military intelligence, covert activities, and counter-terrorism functionality.
Mossad's former motto, “be-tachbūlōt ta`aseh lekhā milchāmāh,” was interestingly taken from Proverbs 24:6 which says, "For by wise guidance you can wage your war.” Later, Proverbs 11:14 became the new motto, which states, "Where there is no guidance, a nation falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety."
Following is Ben Gurion's letter ordering the establishment of the Mossad:
"Secret"
22 Kislev 5710
13 December 1949
To: The Foreign Ministry
From: The Prime Minister
Upon my instructions, an institute is being established to coordinate state intelligence agencies (the Military Intelligence Department, the Foreign Ministry State Department, the Shin Bet, etc.).
I have charged Reuven Shiloah, Foreign Ministry advisor for special projects, to organize and head the institute. Reuven Shiloah will report to me. He will act upon my instructions and will submit regular working reports to me. For administrative purposes, his office will be part of the Foreign Ministry.
I have instructed R. Shiloah to submit a manpower and budget proposal for 1950–1951 for approximately IL20,000, IL5,000 of which will be used for special operations, contingent on my prior authorization.
You are hereby requested to add this sum to the Foreign Ministry budget for 1950–1951.
(Signed) D. Ben Gurion
Written by Erin Parfet
