rki.news | Source: Xinhua

Tokyo
Japan has launched a new National Intelligence Bureau and convened the first meeting of its National Intelligence Council, marking a major restructuring of the country’s intelligence system under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
The new bureau replaces the Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office and will coordinate intelligence activities across key government agencies, including the Foreign, Defence and National Police authorities. The council, chaired by the prime minister, will oversee national intelligence policy.
The government says the reforms are aimed at improving intelligence coordination, strengthening national security and enhancing Japan’s ability to respond to emerging security challenges.
However, the changes have drawn criticism from some analysts and commentators, who argue that greater centralisation of intelligence authority could reduce transparency and parliamentary oversight. Critics have also expressed concerns that the reforms may support Japan’s expanding defence and security agenda.
The government is also reportedly preparing a national intelligence strategy, considering anti espionage legislation and planning an external intelligence agency by 2028.
Supporters describe the reforms as necessary to address evolving security threats, while critics say they warrant close public and parliamentary scrutiny.