Israel’s secret operation to cultivate an avowed enemy
Why Israel recruited Ahmadinejad as an intelligence asset.
From The Times
July 13, 2026

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, the former president of Iran, who is widely reviled in Israel, was known for accelerating Iran’s nuclear program, calling regularly for the destruction of Israel and denying the Holocaust.

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad seated in front of an Iranian flag.

Todd Heisler/The New York Times

So why was Israel grooming him as an intelligence asset? →

MORE TOP STORIES

A judge issued a scathing ruling over President Trump’s I.R.S. deal. →

A large red and blue oil tanker in a body of water, with smaller vessels nearby.

China’s next move may decide whether oil prices soar. →

From Opinion

Who will win the midterms? Six pollsters and pundits have thoughts. →

Your daily guide to understanding what’s happening — and why it matters. Hosted by Katrin Bennhold, for readers around the world.

Sign up for the World newsletter.

Your daily guide to understanding what’s happening — and why it matters. Hosted by Katrin Bennhold, for readers around the world.

Get it in your inbox

If you received this newsletter from someone else, subscribe here.

Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance.

You received this message because you signed up for updates from The New York Times.

To stop receiving From The Times, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings.

Subscribe to The Times

Connect with us on:

facebookxinstagramwhatsapp

Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices

Zeta LogoAdChoices Logo

The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018