Former Intelligence Officials Detail Unique Interrogation Protocol for Hostages

Two former senior intelligence officials, clinical psychologist Glenn Cohen and ex-Shin Bet investigations chief "Steve," have revealed the development of a novel psychological and intelligence-gathering protocol used to debrief hostages released after the October 7th Hamas attacks. Initially, there was no established procedure for handling returning hostages, leading to a chaotic environment in the immediate aftermath of the attacks. Cohen, who had extensive experience with POWs from the Yom Kippur War, recognized the need for a sensitive approach, contrasting it with the harsh interrogations of the past. He collaborated with "Steve" to create a system that prioritized the emotional well-being of the returnees while extracting crucial intelligence.

Their approach, described as a "startup" operation, involved treating former hostages not as suspects but as "returnees" and conducting interviews in a comfortable setting rather than a sterile interrogation room. The primary focus in the initial stages was gathering information about other hostages still held captive, including their condition and location. This method, they explained, was crucial for rescue operations and negotiations. The protocol emphasized giving the returnees a sense of control, allowing them to decide what and when to discuss, and respecting their pace.

Cohen, who served 25 years in the Mossad, and "Steve," who served 37 years in the Shin Bet, leveraged their decades of experience to build a system that became world-renowned. They trained dozens of interrogators and psychologists, many of whom were reservists. The protocol also involved extensive simulations using actors from the IDF theater to prepare for various scenarios, including psychological distress and resistance from the returnees. They also developed specific approaches for handling children and foreign nationals who were held captive.

Despite the immense pressure and personal toll, including "Steve" dealing with his mother's death just before the first hostage exchange, the team operated with dedication. They also faced the difficult task of delivering news of murdered family members to some returnees, adhering to a protocol of not forcing information. The officials highlighted the resilience of the hostages, noting that many found ways to cope and even grow through their ordeal, a phenomenon they termed the "Stockdale Paradox," which involves maintaining hope while confronting harsh realities.

The protocol also included provisions for addressing potential sexual assault allegations, ensuring minimal exposure and proper reporting channels. The officials acknowledged the immense challenges and the public's perception, but emphasized that their primary compass was always the well-being of the returnees. They also noted the significant role of the Thai workers who were held captive, as their unique position allowed for valuable intelligence gathering.