Israel has formally approved the appointment of Roman Gofman as the next head of the Mossad intelligence agency, marking a leadership transition at one of the country’s most sensitive security institutions.
The decision was confirmed in a statement from the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after a senior appointments committee gave its approval on Sunday.
Gofman is expected to take over in June 2026, replacing outgoing director David Barnea.
Gofman’s appointment had been signalled earlier, with Netanyahu nominating him in late 2025.
The approval now finalises the process, clearing the way for him to assume leadership of the intelligence service in the coming months.
A seasoned military figure, Gofman currently serves as the prime minister’s military secretary.
He is also known for his role during the aftermath of the October 7, 2023 attacks, when he was involved in responding to the Hamas-led assault on southern Israel and coordinating emergency military actions near affected communities.
His move to head the Mossad places him at the centre of Israel’s external intelligence operations at a time of heightened regional tensions, particularly as conflicts across the Middle East continue to reshape security priorities.
The transition comes as Israel recalibrates its security leadership amid ongoing instability in the region, with intelligence agencies playing a key role in both counterterrorism and broader strategic planning.
