Published: 26 November 2019
Last updated: 4 March 2024
Revealed: New Zealand's link to the mystery of executed Israeli spy Eli Cohen (Newshub NZ)
Newshub can exclusively reveal an incredible new development in the search for the bones of executed Israeli spy Eli Cohen. While Israel was at war with Syria in the 1960s, the legendary secret agent infiltrated the Syrian Government, leading a double life for years.
When he was uncovered, Cohen was executed and secretly buried somewhere in Syria. Fifty-three years later, the hunt for the body of the Israeli hero continues.
In Sunday's 'Because It Matters', Newshub reveals that New Zealand spies have been investigating a lead with a Syrian refugee living in Auckland.
Khalid al-Hafidh, a man from the Auckland suburb of Glenfield, is the son of Amin al-Hafiz - the Syrian President who oversaw the execution of Cohen and the secret burial of his body.
"I am the son of the only person on this planet who knows where the remains are buried," Khalid told Newshub. Spies from the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service [NZSIS] contacted Khalid two years ago.
'I know where Eli Cohen is buried,' says alleged son of ex-Syrian leader (Ynet)
New-Zealander claiming to be son of Amin al-Hafiz says Mossad refused to pay him $1million to reveal location of executed spy's remains; Cohen's widow asks: 'Is he not worth it?'
Photo: Former Mossad spy Eli Cohen
