Ezra Danin Israeli intelligence officer and diplomat Date of Birth: 02.08.1903 Country: Israel

1. Early Life and Career
2. The Birth of the "Shai" Intelligence Service
3. Analyzing and Recruiting
4. The Great Arab Revolt and the Path to War
5. Diplomacy with King Abdullah I
6. Post-War Career

Early Life and Career

Ezra Danin's journey began as an intelligence officer and diplomat for the Jewish Agency's Political Department, where he specialized in Arab affairs. His extensive connections within the Arab community during the mid-1930s, while working on an orange plantation, proved invaluable.

The Birth of the "Shai" Intelligence Service

In 1936, Danin's expertise led to the establishment of "Shai," the first intelligence service for the future Jewish state. As its chief Arab affairs officer, he became the sole professional employee, laying the foundation for the principle of "Knowing Thy Enemy" that would guide Israeli intelligence for decades to come.

Analyzing and Recruiting

Danin's meticulous analysis of every incident and conflict situation allowed him to distinguish allies from adversaries. He played a pivotal role in developing the concept of recruiting Arab agents from areas of joint Arab-Jewish activity, such as transportation, communications, and administration. This approach broke away from traditional British intelligence practices.

The Great Arab Revolt and the Path to War

Danin's intelligence played a crucial role in the intelligence gathered during the Great Arab Revolt. In his preface to the "Book of Enoch," a collection of Arab rebel documents, he warned that differentiating enemies from allies was paramount. Despite his efforts, war broke out in 1948.

Diplomacy with King Abdullah I

Alongside Golda Meir and Eliahu Sasson, Danin attempted to negotiate with King Abdullah I of Jordan to prevent Jordan's involvement in the impending conflict. However, their efforts proved futile as the Jewish delegation could not abandon the declaration of statehood, and the king faced pressure from Arab leaders and his own people.

Post-War Career

After the war, Danin served as the head of the Foreign Ministry's Middle East Department. He passed away in 1984 in Hadera.