Former Mossad Operative Deborah Sharifian Bechar Joins Israeli Political Party Yashar

Deborah Sharifian Bechar, a former operative with Israel's Shin Bet and Mossad intelligence agencies, has joined the Yashar political party, announced on Thursday. Born in Tehran, she was smuggled to Israel at age seven in a Mossad operation. Sharifian Bechar brings 22 years of extensive security experience, including frontline counterterrorism work in Shin Bet's operational units and various intelligence roles in Mossad. Alongside her security background, she is recognized for leadership in education and entrepreneurship focused on reducing social gaps, developing Israel's periphery, and training future intelligence and data professionals.

Yashar party chairman Gadi Eizenkot praised Sharifian Bechar as a breakthrough leader who shattered glass ceilings, combining operational expertise with innovative and educational leadership. He described her as a significant asset for the party's mission to enact necessary national reforms. Sharifian Bechar emphasized her transition from behind-the-scenes security roles to active political engagement, motivated by Israel's internal challenges. She advocates for linking national security resilience with social strength and ensuring equal opportunities for children in Israel's peripheral regions.

Her entry into politics follows a career marked by direct involvement in thwarting attacks and intelligence gathering, reflecting a commitment to Israel's security and societal development. This move signals a growing trend of former intelligence professionals entering the political arena to influence decision-making at the highest levels.