Ex-Mossad Chief Yossi Cohen Joins Israeli Startup Quantum X Labs

Former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen has been appointed president of the scientific advisory board for the Israeli startup Quantum X Labs. The announcement, made on Tuesday, September 15, saw the company's shares rise approximately 10% to a market capitalization of around $100 million. Cohen, who led the Mossad from 2016 to 2021 and previously headed the National Security Council, was instrumental in significant Israeli operations, including the 2018 acquisition of Iran's nuclear program archive and the formation of the Abraham Accords. He also joined SoftBank in 2021, overseeing its Vision Fund 2 activities in Israel and investing in cybersecurity firms like Cato Networks, Wiz, and Claroty, later becoming a strategic advisor in August 2026.

Cohen will join the existing scientific advisory board at Quantum X Labs, which includes Professor Oren Corland from Technion and Professor Oren Raz from the Weizmann Institute. The company aims to expand its operations, particularly in the defense, aviation, and space sectors, as well as in critical infrastructure protection. This appointment follows a similar move by former Mossad chief David Barnea, who became president of the American defense company Ondas.

Cohen stated he joined Quantum X Labs due to its "rare combination of outstanding human capital and significant technological potential," citing his experience in recognizing the necessary blend of people, technology, and vision for success. The company expects Cohen to aid in developing and implementing its technological and commercial strategies in quantum computing, cybersecurity, quantum communications, and sensors. Quantum X Labs aims to develop a modular platform for a multi-thousand-qubit quantum computer by the end of 2027. The company, which listed on NASDAQ in early May 2026, is in its early stages and has not yet reported significant profits or revenue.

Quantum X Labs CEO Yaki Baranes highlighted Cohen's role in advancing the company's unique capabilities, such as quantum sensing for navigation and synchronization, quantum error correction, and quantum cybersecurity, as they transition from research to real-world applications. The startup anticipates leveraging Cohen's expertise and connections to foster infrastructure investments, aligning with SoftBank's broader strategy in AI, data centers, and chips. Cohen's role will focus on prioritizing defense and critical infrastructure applications, promoting international partnerships, and commercializing the company's intellectual property.