These are world’s 10 most powerful intelligence agencies, find out where India’s RAW and Pakistan’s ISI rank
Every country takes its national security very seriously, and one of the ways they stay a step ahead of threats is by deploying secret agents through their intelligence agencies. These agents often operate behind the scenes, gathering crucial information, sometimes even in enemy territories. Lately, there’s been a lot of buzz around intelligence agencies in India after a popular YouTuber, Jyoti Malhotra, was arrested on spying charges. With this in the spotlight, let’s take a look at the top 10 most powerful intelligence agencies around the globe.
1. CIA – United States
At the top of the list is the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) of the United States. Established during World War II, the CIA is known for its deep network of agents and high-tech surveillance systems. It plays a crucial role in America’s foreign policy and national defense strategies.
2. Mossad – Israel
Israel’s Mossad is often considered one of the most feared and secretive agencies in the world. Formed in 1949, Mossad is known for hunting down threats to Israel across the globe often eliminating enemies in operations.
3. MI6 – United Kingdom
Also known as the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS), the UK’s MI6 is the agency behind Britain’s overseas espionage. Popularly featured in James Bond films, MI6 is a real and extremely capable agency, playing a major role in global intelligence work.
4. RAW – India
India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) ranks among the top intelligence agencies in the world. It was set up in 1968 after the 1965 Indo-Pak war to focus on foreign intelligence. RAW is credited with many key operations that have protected India’s interests both at home and abroad.
5. ISI – Pakistan
Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) was established in 1948, right after independence. It has a reputation for being deeply involved in regional politics and has often been accused of supporting terrorism though it remains one of the most active agencies in South Asia.
6. FSB – Russia
The Federal Security Service (FSB) of Russia is known as one of the world’s most dangerous intelligence services. It was formed in 1994 as the successor to the KGB. The FSB deals with everything from counterterrorism to cybercrime and international espionage.
7. MSS – China
China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS) is its main intelligence agency, created in 1983. It handles both internal and external security and is often in the news for cyber-espionage and hacking activities targeting governments and corporations worldwide.
8. DGSE – France
The Directorate-General for External Security (DGSE) is France’s foreign intelligence service. It operates under the Ministry of Defense and plays a key role in international intelligence gathering, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.
9. ASIS – Australia
The Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS) works closely with Western allies like the U.S. and the U.K. While it operates more quietly, it’s a highly professional agency focused on securing Australia’s interests abroad.
10. BND – Germany
Germany’s Bundesnachrichtendienst (BND) rounds off the top 10 list. It is responsible for both military and civil intelligence outside of Germany. With a strong focus on global affairs and counterintelligence, the BND remains an important part of global intelligence cooperation.
These agencies operate mostly behind the scenes but play a huge role in shaping international politics and ensuring national security. From high-tech surveillance to covert missions, the world of intelligence is both fascinating and powerful.
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