REVIEW OF THE DOCUMENTARY:

THE WORKINGS OF MOSSAD

Submitted to:

Dr. Mohammad Atif Khan

(Faculty, Public International Law)

Submitted by:

Anirudh Dewangan

(Semester 4, Section A, Roll No. 19)

HIDAYATULLAH NATIONAL LAW UNIVERSITY

Uparwara Post, Opp. Jungle Safari,

Atal Nagar, District Raipur

Chhattisgarh, 492002
About/Introduction

The documentary “The Workings of Mossad” is a comprehensive look into the inner
workings of the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad. Produced by DW Documentary, the film
features interviews with former Mossad agents, experts on intelligence operations, and
individuals who have been affected by Mossad's actions. The documentary provides a
detailed analysis of Mossad's history, organization, and tactics, shedding light on the agency's
impact on Israeli security and global affairs.

The documentary takes the viewer on a journey through the history of Mossad, from its
establishment in 1951 to its current activities. It explores the agency's involvement in various
covert operations, including the capture of Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann, the
assassination of Palestinian leader Mahmoud Al-Mabhouh, and the Iran nuclear program. The
documentary also delves into the agency's recruitment and training process and provides
interviews with former Mossad agents, intelligence experts, and Israeli officials.

Timeline/Structure

The documentary “The Workings of Mossad” does not follow a strictly linear timeline, as it
covers a wide range of events and topics related to the history and operations of the Israeli
intelligence agency Mossad. However, here is a rough timeline of some of the key events and
themes covered in the documentary:

 The film begins with a brief overview of the history of Israel and the establishment of
Mossad in 1949.
 The documentary then delves into Mossad's involvement in tracking down Nazi war
criminals, including the abduction and trial of Adolf Eichmann in 1960.
 The film also covers Mossad's role in the Black September terrorist attacks at the
1972 Munich Olympics, and the subsequent "Wrath of God" operation to track down
and kill those responsible.
 The documentary then explores Mossad's efforts to prevent Iran from developing
nuclear weapons, including the use of cyber attacks and targeted assassinations of
Iranian nuclear scientists.
 The film also delves into Mossad's methods of intelligence gathering, including the
use of undercover agents, wiretapping, and surveillance technologies.
  The documentary then addresses some of the controversial aspects of Mossad's
operations, including its involvement in targeted assassinations and the delicate
balance between national security and human rights.
 Finally, the film examines Mossad's impact on global affairs, including its
involvement in the Iran-Contra affair, its efforts to combat terrorism, and its role in
the assassination of Hamas commander Mahmoud Al-Mabhouh in Dubai in 2010.

While the documentary does not follow a strict chronological timeline, it provides a
comprehensive overview of the history and operations of Mossad, covering a wide range of
events and themes related to the agency's role in Israeli security and global affairs.

Analysis

The documentary begins by providing historical context for the creation of Mossad, tracing
its origins back to the aftermath of the Holocaust and Israel's establishment as a nation-state.
It discusses the agency's role in collecting intelligence, conducting covert operations, and
protecting Israel from external threats. The film also delves into the methods used by Mossad
to recruit agents and gather information, highlighting the agency's reliance on human
intelligence and technological advancements.

One of the most striking aspects of the documentary is its emphasis on the sheer scale and
complexity of Mossad's operations. From tracking down Nazi war criminals to preventing
terrorist attacks, Mossad has been involved in some of the most high-profile intelligence
operations in history. The documentary provides a fascinating glimpse into the agency's
methods, which include everything from wiretapping to the use of disguises and false
identities.

The film also addresses the controversial aspects of Mossad's operations, including its
involvement in assassinations and targeted killings. The documentary provides insights from
former Mossad agents who have participated in such operations, shedding light on the moral
and ethical dilemmas faced by those who carry out such actions. The film explores the
delicate balance between national security and human rights, and the difficult decisions that
must be made in the pursuit of intelligence and security objectives.
Another important theme of the documentary is the role played by Mossad in global affairs.
From the agency's involvement in the Iran-Contra affair to its efforts to combat the global
threat of terrorism, Mossad has been at the forefront of many important international issues.
The documentary provides a nuanced analysis of the agency's impact on global politics,
highlighting the challenges faced by intelligence agencies in navigating the complex web of
international relations.

Criticism

While “The Workings of Mossad” is an informative and well-produced documentary, it is

not without its flaws.

One criticism is that the film tends to glorify Mossad's operations, particularly its use of
targeted killings, without adequately addressing the legal and ethical concerns surrounding
this practice.

The documentary also fails to provide a broader historical context for Mossad's actions,
particularly with regards to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which is a significant factor in the
agency's operations.

Additionally, while the film features interviews with former Mossad agents, it lacks
perspectives from critics or outside experts, which could provide a more balanced analysis of
the agency's operations. Overall, while "The Workings of Mossad" is informative and
engaging, it could benefit from a more critical and nuanced approach to the subject matter.

Review In Scope of Public International Law

“The Workings of Mossad” is a documentary that is closely connected to public international

law, particularly with regards to the legal and ethical considerations surrounding Mossad's
operations. The film explores the controversial use of targeted killings, which are often
carried out without due process or legal justification, and raises important questions about the
legality and legitimacy of such practices under international law.

The documentary also examines the diplomatic implications of Mossad's actions, particularly
when foreign governments are implicated in its operations. This raises issues related to state
responsibility and the duties of states to prevent and punish wrongful acts committed on their
territory.

Overall, “The Workings of Mossad” provides a fascinating case study on the intersection
between intelligence operations and international law, highlighting the complex legal and
ethical considerations involved in these activities.

Ending Note/Conclusion

Overall, “The Workings of Mossad” is a compelling documentary that offers a glimpse into
the secretive world of intelligence operations. While it does not provide a complete picture of
Mossad's activities, it is an excellent starting point for anyone interested in learning more
about the agency's history and methods. The documentary raises important questions about
the ethics and legality of intelligence operations and highlights the challenges and risks of
this type of work. The documentary is well-produced and engaging, making it a must-watch
for anyone interested in the world of intelligence and espionage.