Explore the Shadowy World of Israeli Intelligence

Rise and Kill First: The Secret History of Israel’s Targeted Assassinations by Ronen Bergman offers an unparalleled look into one of the most controversial aspects of Israel’s national security strategy: its program of targeted killings. Drawing on years of intensive research, including interviews with hundreds of current and former Israeli intelligence and political figures, and access to thousands of previously unreleased documents, Bergman constructs a narrative of extraordinary depth and detail.

This gripping account chronicles Israel’s efforts to eliminate perceived enemies from its inception in 1948 to the present day. Bergman doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities, presenting not only the operational details of high-profile assassinations but also the ethical, political, and moral questions that inevitably arise when a state decides to take a life in the name of national security.

Insight into a Hidden History

• Unmatched Access: Bergman gained unprecedented access to the individuals and documents that illuminate this hidden history, offering a truly ‘behind-the-scenes’ perspective.
• Historical Context: The book provides a comprehensive chronicle of Israel’s security policies, showcasing how these controversial tactics have evolved and influenced relations with other nations.
• Thought-Provoking Analysis: It forces readers to confront complex dilemmas about the balance between security and justice, and the human cost of intelligence operations.

“Bergman brings to light a profoundly unsettling history that is crucial for understanding the current dynamics of the Middle East.” — The New York Times

Ronen Bergman, an investigative journalist and military analyst for Israel’s largest daily newspaper, Yedioth Ahronoth, is renowned for his expertise in intelligence and national security. His meticulous reporting and insightful analysis provide a powerful and authoritative voice to this intricate subject. Rise and Kill First has been widely lauded for its exhaustive research and the courage it takes to dissect such a sensitive topic, earning praise as a definitive work in its field.

A used hardcover copy of this compelling title is available on Bookshop Near Me.