Japan Launches First Centralized Intelligence Bureau Since World War II

The Government of Japan launched the National Intelligence Bureau on July 31, 2026, marking the first centralized intelligence body in the country since World War II. Established under a bill enacted in May, the bureau serves as an upgrade of the Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office and acts as the secretariat for the newly created National Intelligence Council. Led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, the council oversees operational policy and receives synthesized security and public safety information from various ministries, including the police and defense ministry.

Under the direction of Kazuya Hara, the bureau aims to compel cooperation among previously siloed government agencies to address vulnerabilities that have allegedly allowed Russia to obtain Japanese components for missiles and drones. The Takaichi administration intends to counter threats from North Korea, China, and Russia, with plans to consider further measures such as anti-espionage laws requiring the registration of foreign agents and the creation of an external intelligence agency.

The overhaul has faced domestic and international pushback. Social Democratic Party lawmaker Fukushima Mizuho raised concerns regarding government overreach and privacy infringements. Externally, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning described the move as a negative development in Japan's security policies.