The name of Yossi Cohen, the former Mossad chief, has returned to the spotlight after details emerged of a sensitive plan during the 2023 war to temporarily relocate Gaza residents to Sinai as a humanitarian measure to reduce casualties.
Cohen, known for his expertise and extensive international network, stated that he proposed the idea based on secret diplomacy, but the plan faced a decisive rejection from President Sisi, who affirmed his refusal to compromise Sinai’s sovereignty or alter its demographics.
Born in Jerusalem in 1961, Cohen rose as an intelligence officer and diplomat who led major operations such as stealing Iran’s nuclear archive and expanding Israel’s regional relations.
He held several senior positions and achieved successes in countering Iran’s nuclear program and played a role in the “Abraham Accords.” During his leadership, Mossad’s cyber capabilities and intelligence cooperation network evolved significantly.
After leaving Mossad in 2021, he entered the private sector and began publishing his memoirs, where he discussed his experiences and political vision. Despite his achievements, Cohen sparked controversy over his ideas regarding Gaza and the future of Palestinians, emphasizing that Israel’s values and history guided his career.
The biggest surprise came from Cairo, where President Abdel Fattah Sisi rejected the plan, delivering a political blow to Cohen’s proposal.
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