FROM GOODREADS: The # 1 New York Times best seller the Israeli foreign intelligence agency The Mossad tried to ban. The making of a Mossad officer is the true story of an officer in Israel’s most secret agency. The first time the Mossad came calling, they wanted Victor Ostrovsky for their assassination unit, the kidon. He turned them down. The next time, he agreed to enter the grueling three-year training program to become a katsa, or intelligence case officer, for the legendary Israeli spy organization. By Way of Deception is the explosive chronicle of his experiences in the Mossad, and of two decades of their frightening and often ruthless covert activities around the world. Penetrating far deeper than the bestselling Every Spy a Prince, it is an insider’s account of Mossad tactics and exploits. In chilling detail, Ostrovsky asserts that the Mossad refused to share critical knowledge of a planned suicide mission in Beirut, leading to the death of hundreds of U.S. Marines and French troops. He tells how they tracked Yasser Arafat by recruiting his driver and bodyguard; how they withheld information on the whereabouts of American hostages, paving the way for the Iran-Contra scandal; and how their intervention into secret UN negotiations led to the sudden resignation of ambassador Andrew Young and the downfall of his career. By Way of Deception describes the shocking scope and depth of the Mossad’s influence, disclosing how Jewish communities in the U.S., Europe, and South America are armed and trained by the organization in secret ?self-defense? units, and how Mossad agents facilitate the drug trade in order to pay the enormous costs of its far-flung, clandestine operation. And it portrays a network that has grown dangerously out of control, as internal squabbles have led to the escape of terrorists and the pursuit of policies completely at odds with the interests of the state of Israel. This document is possibly the most important and controversial book of its kind since Spycatcher.
The Making of a Mossad Officer
“By Way of Deception: The Making of a Mossad Officer” by Victor Ostrovsky and Claire Hoy is a controversial memoir that offers a unique insider’s perspective into the world of the Mossad, Israel’s renowned intelligence agency. Ostrovsky is a former Mossad officer. He provides firsthand accounts and insights into the agency’s operations, training methods, and ethical dilemmas. The book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complex world of intelligence gathering and covert operations.
By Way of Deception: The Making of a Mossad Officer Summary:
“By Way of Deception: The Making of a Mossad Officer” by Victor Ostrovsky and Claire Hoy is a revealing and controversial memoir that provides a firsthand account of the author’s experiences as a former Mossad officer. Ostrovsky takes readers on a captivating journey, detailing his training, missions, and the inner workings of the Mossad.
The book explores the intense training aspiring Mossad officers undergo. Ostrovsky shares his experiences and insights into the selection process, psychological evaluations, and specialized skills needed to become a Mossad operative. He reveals the agency’s focus on deception, manipulation, and the use of undercover identities as crucial tools in intelligence operations.
Ostrovsky offers a rare look into Mossad’s covert operations. He recounts missions involving intelligence gathering, sabotage, and assassination plots. The book illuminates the agency’s role in counterterrorism, safeguarding Israeli interests, and its global involvement. Ostrovsky’s accounts provide valuable insights into the complexities, risks, and ethical dilemmas faced by intelligence operatives.
“By Way of Deception” delves into the internal dynamics and controversies of the Mossad. Ostrovsky explores rivalries, power struggles, and the difficulties of upholding operational security. He raises important questions about the delicate balance between national security and individual freedoms, shedding light on the moral and ethical considerations inherent in intelligence work.
It is important to note that “By Way of Deception” has generated significant controversy and debate. The book has faced criticism from some who question its accuracy and authenticity. However, it remains a thought-provoking and captivating account that offers a unique perspective on the world of intelligence gathering and covert operations.
Some of the controversies and criticisms surrounding “By Way of Deception: The Making of a Mossad Officer” stem from the nature of its content and the claims made by Victor Ostrovsky.
Firstly, the book has been criticized for its accuracy and authenticity. Some individuals, including officials from the Mossad, have questioned the veracity of Ostrovsky’s accounts. They argue that certain details and events described in the book may be exaggerated or distorted for dramatic effect. It is important to approach the book with a critical eye and consider the possibility of embellishment or personal bias.
Secondly, the publication of “By Way of Deception” sparked a legal battle between Victor Ostrovsky and the Israeli government. The Israeli government sought to prevent the book’s publication and distribution. The Israeli government claimed that it contained sensitive and classified information that could harm national security. This legal dispute further fueled the controversy surrounding the book.
Additionally, some critics argue that “By Way of Deception” provides a one-sided and potentially skewed perspective on the Mossad and its operations. They argue that Ostrovsky’s experiences may not represent the entirety of the agency’s activities, and that his personal biases or motivations could influence his portrayal.
It is important to approach the book with a critical mindset, considering alternative viewpoints and corroborating information from other sources. While “By Way of Deception” offers a unique insider’s perspective, readers should be aware of the controversies and criticisms surrounding it to form a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter.
Conclusion
“By Way of Deception: The Making of a Mossad Officer” by Victor Ostrovsky and Claire Hoy provides a captivating and controversial look into the inner workings of the Mossad. Ostrovsky’s firsthand experiences and insights offer readers a unique perspective on the training, operations, and ethical dilemmas faced by Mossad officers. While it has generated controversy, the book remains a thought-provoking exploration of the complex world of intelligence gathering and covert operations.
My Goodreads Review:
By Way of Deception: The Making of a Mossad Officer by Victor OstrovskyMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Mossad has always been of interest to me. And this book added more to what I already have learned about the institute. The book explores recruitment, training, and covert operations, offering a controversial yet thought-provoking perspective on espionage. It remains a captivating read for those intrigued by the inner workings of intelligence agencies and the ethical challenges they confront.
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