Mossad agents awarded Israel Defense Prize

President Shimon Peres awarded the Israel Defense Prize to eight Mossad agents Tuesday, for their part in an unusually complex operation.

The operation entailed the use of some of the most sophisticated technology available, allowing its outcome to make a pivotal contribution to State security.

The ceremony was held at the president's official residence in Jerusalem. The obvious sensitive nature of the situation prevented those attending it from taking any photographs, and the entire event – as the winners themselves – was heavily guarded by Shin Bet officers.

"Israel is a one-of-a-kind democracy," said Peres, "and probably the only democracy where you can make all the disadvantages public, but many of the advantages must remain covert. This creates an imbalanced view of things," he said.

The Israel Defense Prize is awarded for outstanding execution of a project which contributes to Israel's security and the preservation of its military, technological and operational edge.

Winners of the Israel Defense Prize are usually defense industry employees, engineers, scientists and operational officers.

"We are here to thank the people who have dedicated their lives to inventing something unique; who are spending all their time to giving Israel an edge. I don't know of any other country where so many people are willing to go so far beyond the call of duty. I thank you," said Peres.

Defense Minister Ehud Barak, who was also present at the ceremony, also thanked the officers.