Former Mossad Chief Dedi Barnea Sparks Online Controversy Attending Rabbi Pinto's Son's Engagement

Former Mossad chief Dedi Barnea, who ended his tenure in June 2026, attended the engagement celebration of Rabbi Yeshayahu Pinto's son alongside senior Likud officials, including Defense Minister Israel Katz, Environmental Protection Minister Idit Silman, Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar, and Regional Cooperation Minister Dudi Amsalem. The event took place on August 6, 2026, and quickly stirred controversy on social media, especially among left-wing commentators and journalists. Critics highlighted Rabbi Pinto's criminal past, noting he served a prison sentence for bribery and obstruction of justice, and questioned the appropriateness of Barnea and other politicians celebrating with him.

The social media backlash persisted days after the event, with journalist Josh Breiner from Haaretz sarcastically remarking on Barnea's association with the "convicted criminal and his bestie" Pinto. Supporters responded by emphasizing cultural and religious norms, noting that invitations to such celebrations are customary and should not be politicized.

Separately, Barnea has embarked on a new career path, recently joining the Nasdaq-listed security technology company Ondas Defense as its global president and chairman. In this role, he is tasked with shaping the company's business and technological strategy, expanding international markets, developing advanced defense technologies, and leading mergers and integrations. Barnea expressed enthusiasm about working with Ondas' team to support global growth and advance next-generation AI-based multidimensional defense systems.