Roman Gofman officially assumed his role as the new director of Israel’s foreign intelligence agency, Mossad, following months of legal and political controversy surrounding his appointment.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Gofman stated that Iran and its regional allies had suffered significant setbacks during recent conflicts, arguing that Israel's actions had reshaped the balance of power across the Middle East. He praised Mossad personnel for their dedication and experience, describing them as a critical pillar of Israel's national security.

Despite highlighting what he described as major achievements against Iran, Gofman stressed that the mission was far from complete. He pledged that Mossad would continue operating covertly to develop new capabilities and strategies aimed at countering Iranian influence and addressing future security challenges.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu used the occasion to express strong confidence in the new intelligence chief. Netanyahu argued that Israeli operations conducted throughout 2025 and early 2026 had significantly weakened Iran's ability to threaten Israel, whether through its nuclear ambitions or the expansion of its ballistic missile program.

Gofman succeeds David Barnea, who completed a five-year term as Mossad director. Before his appointment, Gofman served as Netanyahu’s military secretary and previously held senior positions within the Israeli military establishment.

His appointment faced opposition from several political and security figures and was delayed by legal challenges before ultimately receiving approval from Israel’s Supreme Court. Supporters have described Gofman as a strategic thinker with an unconventional approach to security issues, while critics questioned whether he possessed sufficient intelligence experience for one of Israel’s most sensitive positions.

At 49 years old, Gofman immigrated to Israel from Belarus as a teenager and has built a career within Israel’s security establishment. His appointment places him at the helm of one of the country's most influential intelligence agencies during a period of heightened regional tensions and ongoing confrontation with Iran.