The Most Legendary Israeli Spy | History of Israel Explained | Unpacked

Summary

Eli Cohen, known as Kamel Amin Thaabet, was a legendary Israeli spy who infiltrated the Syrian government in the early 1960s. Born to Syrian-Jewish parents, he migrated to Israel and joined the Mossad after being initially rejected. Through cunning social tactics, he gathered critical intelligence, significantly aiding Israel's military success during the Six-Day War. Captured and executed in 1965, his bravery has immortalized him as 'Our Man in Damascus.' His legacy continues to inspire, with schools and parks named in his honor, and his story recently depicted in the Netflix mini-series *The Spy*.

Takeaways

• 🎖️ Eli Cohen, known as Kamel Amin Thaabet, was one of Israel's most famous spies who infiltrated the Syrian government.
• 🕵️ The Mossad, Israel's intelligence agency, was established in 1949 and has been involved in numerous critical operations.
• 🌍 Eli Cohen was born in 1924 to Syrian-Jewish parents in Egypt and immigrated to Israel in 1956 due to rising antisemitism.
• 📚 Cohen worked as a counterintelligence analyst before being recruited by the Mossad after his initial rejection.
• 💪 He underwent intense training to become a spy, developing skills like a photographic memory and learning to speak Arabic with a Syrian accent.
• ✈️ Under the alias Kamel Amin Thaabet, Cohen moved to Argentina and later Syria, where he gained the trust of high-ranking officials.
• 🤝 Cohen successfully gathered intelligence for three years, transmitting crucial military information back to Israel.
• 💧 His intelligence helped prevent Syrian plans to divert the Jordan River, a vital water source for Israel.
• ⚔️ Cohen's espionage contributed significantly to Israel's military success in the 1967 Six-Day War, particularly in capturing the Golan Heights.
• ⏳ After being captured in 1965, he was executed by hanging, becoming a martyr and symbol of sacrifice for Israel.

Q & A

Who was Eli Cohen and what is his significance in Israeli history?

Eli Cohen, also known as Kamel Amin Thaabet, was a renowned Israeli spy who infiltrated the highest ranks of the Syrian government. He is significant for his contributions to Israeli intelligence and military success, particularly during the Six-Day War in 1967.

What role did the Mossad play in Eli Cohen's story?

The Mossad, Israel's intelligence agency, recruited Eli Cohen for a special mission to infiltrate the Syrian government. His successful intelligence-gathering efforts greatly aided Israeli military strategies.

What background did Eli Cohen have before becoming a spy?

Eli Cohen was born in 1924 to Syrian-Jewish parents in Egypt and later immigrated to Israel. He had a background in engineering and initially worked as a counterintelligence analyst for the Israeli Defense Forces before seeking a more thrilling role in the Mossad.

What training did Eli Cohen undergo to prepare for his spy mission?

Cohen underwent extensive training to enhance his photographic memory, learn military equipment identification, and develop skills for tracking targets. He was also trained to speak Arabic with a Syrian accent and to operate a radio transmitter.

How did Eli Cohen manage to gain the trust of Syrian officials?

Cohen, posing as a wealthy Syrian businessman, threw lavish parties where he interacted with high-level Syrian officials, eavesdropping on their conversations while feigning intoxication to gather intelligence.

What key information did Eli Cohen provide to Israel?

Cohen gathered crucial intelligence regarding Syrian military plans, including a plot to divert the Jordan River to cut off Israel's water supply. His reports contributed significantly to Israeli military strategies during the Six-Day War.

What led to Eli Cohen's capture and execution?

Cohen's capture was prompted by Syrian suspicions of a mole due to intelligence leaks. In January 1965, the Syrian military imposed a period of radio silence and traced illegal transmissions back to Cohen's residence, leading to his arrest.

How did the international community react to Eli Cohen's execution?

Cohen's execution on May 18, 1965, drew international attention and outrage, including a plea for mercy from Pope Paul VI. Despite appeals, Cohen was found guilty and executed without a fair trial.

What legacy did Eli Cohen leave behind in Israel?

Eli Cohen is remembered as a national hero in Israel, with many schools, streets, and parks named in his honor. His story serves as an inspiration for selflessness and dedication to one’s country.

What recent media representation has been made about Eli Cohen's life?

Eli Cohen's life story has been dramatized in a Netflix mini-series titled 'The Spy,' starring Sacha Baron Cohen, showcasing his remarkable espionage activities and legacy.