Radio Atlantic: Mossad’s Former Chief Calls the War in Gaza ‘Useless’

Episode Release Date: June 5, 2025

Introduction

In this thought-provoking episode of Radio Atlantic, Hanna Rosen engages in a candid conversation with Tamir Pardo, the former chief of Mossad, Israel’s premier intelligence agency. Pardo delivers a scathing critique of Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, labeling it as "useless" and highlighting the profound discontent brewing within Israeli society and even among military veterans.

Current State of the Gaza Conflict

The episode opens with a stark recounting of the prolonged conflict between Israel and Hamas. As of the conversation, it has been nearly 600 days since Hamas's attack on October 7th, resulting in ongoing hostilities and the hostage crisis, with 58 Israeli civilians still held captive.

“600 days since Hamas militants staged their murderous attack on October 7th. 600 days and they are still holding 58 Israeli hostages.” ([00:40])

Humanitarian Crisis and Ceasefire Proposals

Rosen outlines the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, noting concerns of famine and the chaos at U.S.-backed aid distribution sites. Israel's total blockade on humanitarian aid, imposed on March 2nd, has exacerbated the crisis. A temporary ceasefire proposal is on the table, contingent upon the release of hostages and deceased soldiers.

“The potential deal involves releasing 10 living Israeli hostages and the bodies of 18 dead.” ([00:39])

Internal Dissent and Public Protests

The discussion shifts to the growing frustration among Israeli citizens. Rosen describes a palpable disconnect between the government’s stance and the populace's demands, emphasizing widespread protests demanding the release of hostages and an end to the war.

“The country feels like it's choking on despair and frustration with its own government and the lack of an end to this war.” ([03:40])

Notable public expressions of dissent include:

• A flight attendant announcing, “Bring them home now,” followed by applause ([03:50]).
• Stickers branding streets as “Netanyahu is dangerous” ([04:00]).
• Protesters displaying signs reading “NOW” to signify the urgent need to end the war ([03:40]).

Military Voices Against the War

A pivotal moment in the episode is Pardo’s revelation that over 250 Mossad and Shin Bet veterans have signed an open letter urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to cease hostilities. This unprecedented move signifies deep concern within Israel’s military elite about the war’s direction and its long-term consequences.

“We are creating a problem that I know how we were able to solve it. I am not expecting... we have to solve the problem.” ([12:00])

Historical Context: The Entebbe Raid

Rosen provides historical context by recounting the 1976 Entebbe raid, a successful IDF operation rescuing hostages from Uganda. This mission cemented Israel’s commitment to protecting its citizens, a commitment that Pardo argues has been shattered by the current conflict.

“The raid at Entebbe cemented a promise. Yes, Israeli citizens are always vulnerable to terrorist attacks, but the government will always, always rescue them.” ([17:07])

Pardo’s Critique of Netanyahu’s Strategy

Pardo's core argument centers on Netanyahu’s leadership and strategic missteps. He asserts that the Prime Minister’s approach prioritizes military action over immediate hostage rescue, thereby prolonging the conflict without achieving meaningful objectives.

“The government prefers to kill than to bring the hostages home.” ([09:36])

Pardo emphasizes the futility of continued military engagement:

“It's a waste of time, what we're doing. Waste of lives, waste of money, wasting the future.” ([05:52])

Potential War Crimes and Ethical Concerns

The episode delves into severe ethical issues, including accusations of war crimes against Israeli officials. Pardo discusses the implications of prolonged warfare in densely populated Gaza, where civilian casualties are high and the humanitarian situation deteriorates.

“It would be hard to avoid a war crime.” ([26:23])

He underscores the moral responsibility of Israel to cease hostilities to prevent further civilian suffering:

“Stop the war. Stop the war. Because it leads you to nowhere.” ([26:47])

Netanyahu’s Indictment and Political Ramifications

Rosen links Netanyahu’s legal troubles to his continued stance on the war, suggesting that the Prime Minister may be using the conflict to divert attention from his indictment on charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust.

“The Prime Minister was indicted on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust... he has an incentive to keep the war going, to distract from and delay his own problems.” ([22:10])

Conclusion: A Call to End the Conflict

In the closing segments, Pardo passionately advocates for an immediate cessation of hostilities, arguing that continued warfare serves no strategic purpose and only deepens national and humanitarian crises.

“Stop the war. Stop the war. Because it leads you to nowhere.” ([26:47])

Final Thoughts

This episode of Radio Atlantic provides a rare and critical perspective from within Israel’s intelligence community, challenging the prevailing narrative and urging a reevaluation of the country’s approach to the Gaza conflict. Pardo’s insights reflect a profound concern for both Israel’s future and the ethical dimensions of its military actions.

Notable Quotes

• “It's useless. It's accomplishing nothing. Nothing. I'm not talking about those people living or dying in Gaza. I'm talking about Israel.” – Tamir Pardo ([05:52])
• “When you have a stick in your hand, use the stick if it's needed. But understand, at the end of the day, you should negotiate for an agreement.” – Tamir Pardo ([23:09])
• “No one, even Small Turkey and Benvir are not killing babies for fun.” – Tamir Pardo ([24:24])

Attribution

This episode was produced by Kevin Townsend and Rosie Hughes, edited by Claudina Baid, with engineering support from Rob Smirciak and fact-checking by Michelle Sirocca. Claudina Baid serves as the executive producer of Atlantic Audio, and Andrea Valdez is the managing editor.

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