Former Mossad Official Comments on Ahmadinejad Recruitment Claims and Qatar's Role in Iran Relations

Dr. Udi Levi, former head of the Mossad's Tzeltzel unit, discussed recent reports claiming that Mossad recruited former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as a candidate for upcoming elections. Speaking on Radio 103FM, Levi said he was not surprised by such reports, noting that intelligence agencies often aim to recruit high-level figures within adversary states. While he could not confirm the story's accuracy, he emphasized that Mossad has been involved in similar operations in Iran before.

Levi also criticized Qatar's dual role in the region, describing it as both a staunch supporter of radical groups and a key mediator involved in conflicts across Syria, Lebanon, Gaza, and its close cooperation with Iran. He questioned why Qatar has not been designated an enemy state despite its controversial activities.

Addressing Iran's resilience amid sanctions and international pressure, Levi highlighted Tehran's sophisticated economic system that enables it to survive and manage its economy by exploiting Western weaknesses. He explained that since 2015, following the previous nuclear deal, Iran has been building an economic network with China and Russia to counter U.S. influence and the dominance of the dollar. This strategy, Levi said, is why Iran remains steadfast and does not quickly concede to negotiations or agreements.