History & Governance

 The Institute for National Security Studies was launched in October 2006, incorporating the Jaffee Center for Strategic Studies at Tel Aviv University, an independent academic institute that was founded in 1977 at the initiative of Tel Aviv University by Major General (res.) Aharon Yariv, for­mer head of Military Intelligence, government minister, and member of Knesset. The Center was a pioneer in Israel, defining strategic studies and establishing defense and national security as research fields. In its new form, INSS became an external institute of Tel Aviv University, enjoying a strong academic affiliation with the university but maintaining financial and organization independence.

In December 2006 INSS moved to its new, upgraded premises, which are outfitted with seminar rooms, conference halls, and state of the art media capabilities that allow for video conferencing and in-house broadcasting.

INSS has a Board of Directors, composed of a chairman, public representatives, and representatives of Tel Aviv University. There is also an international Board of Trustees, composed of individuals who follow and take an active interest in INSS research and events. The general INSS budget is based on money from the INSS endowment, matching funds from Israel's Council for Higher Education; and outside contribution.