Provides an insider perspective on Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad, blending personal stories with national and regional history.barnesandnoble+2
Explains the strategic principles behind Israel’s endurance and transformation from a vulnerable state to a global power, with particular emphasis on adaptability, questioning intelligence, and fostering ingenuity.thecipherbrief+1
Details the psychological aspects of deterrence and the importance of “winning before the battle begins” by instilling fear in adversaries rather than just focusing on battlefield victories.thecipherbrief
Critiques Western misunderstandings about the Middle East and emphasizes the unique challenges Israel faces, including the limitations of technological solutions and the necessity of direct, human intelligence (HUMINT).thecipherbrief
Chronicles major Mossad operations, including the extraction of Iran’s nuclear archive and diplomatic backchanneling, for example, contributions to the Abraham Accords with Gulf states.thefp+1
Describes the role of Mossad as a diplomatic actor, engaging with other nations—including adversaries—in ways that traditional diplomats cannot.thecipherbrief
Focuses on leadership philosophy, stressing decisiveness, operational discipline, and moral imperatives as essential for national security.thefp+1
Analyses lessons from recent events, such as the failures and responses concerning the October 7 attacks.jewishinsider
Offers rare, first-hand insight into the leadership and philosophy of one of the world’s most secretive intelligence agencies.barnesandnoble+1
The book is resolute and unapologetic, providing a clear, strategic argument about Israel’s ongoing existential struggle and its defense imperatives.thecipherbrief
Praise for its readable, engaging narrative style and the way it interweaves personal experience with strategic reflection.thecipherbrief
Thought-provoking critique of both Israel’s adversaries and Western diplomatic/strategic approaches to the Middle East.spytalk+1
Showcases the importance of psychological and human dimensions in conflict and espionage, distinguishing Mossad’s approach from other Western agencies.thecipherbrief
Includes significant operations and diplomatic initiatives, providing a broad understanding of intelligence’s intersection with statecraft and global politics.thefp+1
Lacks detailed operational specifics: many accounts are generalized, with sensitive details omitted for security reasons.spytalk+1
Cohen’s tone may be viewed as starkly ideological, with little room for ambiguity or acknowledgment of Israel’s own controversies or moral dilemmas.thecipherbrief
Some critics highlight personal flaws in Cohen’s leadership, alleging arrogance, self-promotion, and exaggeration of personal achievements.spytalk
Occasionally accused of inflating the uniqueness or centrality of Mossad’s role in events where credit is contested, such as intelligence about Iran’s nuclear program.spytalk
The book is less useful for readers interested in the nuances of tradecraft or specific “how-to” intelligence operations, as these are downplayed in favor of broader strategic and ideological arguments.thecipherbrief
This summary captures the essential themes and critiques discussed in prominent reviews and sources on Cohen’s recent book.