Mossad, formally known as the Institute for Intelligence and Special Operations, is Israel's national intelligence agency established in December 1949. It is one of the three principal bodies in the Israeli Intelligence Community, alongside Aman (military intelligence) and Shin Bet (internal security)[1][2]. Mossad’s core responsibilities include foreign intelligence gathering, covert operations, counter-terrorism, and counterintelligence, all critical to safeguarding Israeli national security[1][2][5]. Reporting directly to the Israeli Prime Minister, Mossad operates with significant autonomy and a budget estimated at around US$2.73 billion, employing approximately 7,000 personnel, making it one of the largest and most resourceful espionage agencies globally[1]. The agency is renowned for its sophisticated tradecraft, which combines traditional espionage methods with cutting-edge technology, including cyber warfare and surveillance[4][5]. Historically, Mossad gained notoriety for high-profile covert operations such as the capture of Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann in 1960 and targeted assassinations of threats to Israel’s security, including Nazi collaborators and terrorists across various continents[1][4]. It has also launched cyberattacks against nuclear facilities, notably in Iran, reflecting its evolving role in modern hybrid warfare[4]. Mossad’s operations are characterized by stealth, psychological manipulation, use of forged identities, and a global network of sayanim (volunteer helpers), which enable agents to operate undetected worldwide[4]. Its collaboration extends internationally, maintaining close intelligence-sharing relationships with agencies like the CIA, MI6, and others, while also engaging in secretive cooperation with some Middle Eastern countries such as the UAE, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia[1][6][7]. Today, under the leadership of Director David 'Dadi' Barnea since 2021, Mossad continues to adapt to emerging threats by leveraging technological innovation and maintaining its reputation for precision and ruthlessness in intelligence and counterterrorism operations[5].