Ex-Mossad Chief Yossi Cohen Appointed to Lead Quantum X Labs Advisory Board

Former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen has been appointed president of the scientific advisory board for the Israeli startup Quantum X Labs. Cohen, who currently serves as a strategic advisor to the Japanese conglomerate SoftBank, will help shape the company's technological and commercial strategy in quantum computing, cybersecurity, and quantum communication and sensors.

Quantum X Labs aims to develop a modular infrastructure for building a quantum computer with several thousand qubits by the end of 2027. The company, which began trading on Nasdaq in early May, stated that Cohen's role will focus on leveraging his expertise to expand its activities, particularly in the defense, aerospace, and critical infrastructure sectors.

Cohen previously led the Mossad from 2016 to 2021 and served as National Security Advisor before that. During his tenure, he oversaw significant covert operations, including the acquisition of Iran's nuclear archive in 2018, and played a role in establishing the Abraham Accords. He joined SoftBank in 2021 to lead its Vision Fund 2 activities in Israel, where he was involved in investments in Israeli cybersecurity firms.

Yaki Berns, CEO of Quantum X Labs, emphasized that Cohen's appointment was based on the company's development of unique capabilities moving from the lab to real-world applications, including quantum sensing for navigation and timing, quantum error correction, and quantum cybersecurity. Cohen cited the company's "rare combination of exceptional human capital and significant technological potential" as his reason for joining, noting his experience in identifying the blend of people, technology, and vision needed for impact.

As president of the advisory board, Cohen is expected to help prioritize applications in defense and critical infrastructure, foster international partnerships, and translate the company's intellectual property into commercial channels, aligning with SoftBank's broader strategy in AI computing, data centers, and semiconductors.