Brother of Israel’s Greatest Spy to Speak at JLI Retreat

In 1967, when Israel dismantled Syrian guns on the Golan Heights as part of a pre-emptive strike, how did they know the secret location of those weapons?

Israel’s most famous spy, Eli Cohen, successfully entered the upper echelons of the Syrian government as an undercover Mossad agent. The secrets he obtained proved crucial to Israel’s victory in the Six-Day War. At this year’s JLI National Jewish Retreat (August 16-21) Eli Cohen’s only surviving brother, Avraham, will reveal behind the scenes insight into Eli Cohen’s story. Avraham will share his family’s experience as well as the ongoing struggle to have Cohen’s remains returned to Israel.

The film “Undercover in Damascus” which chronicles Eli Cohen’s dangerous and dramatic mission will also be screened.

It is 46 years since Eli Cohen was discovered by the Syrian government and publically hanged. He had infiltrated the regime with such brilliance that he was being considered for the position of Syrian Minister of Defense. Cohen was 41 years old at the time of his death. He left behind a widow, three daughters and a son. His remains have not been returned to Israel despite many diplomatic attempts to ensure a proper resting place for “our man in Damascus.”

More information can be found on our website www.jretreat.com or call 1877-JRetreat (573-8732)