What is Japan’s new intelligence agency, and why is Tokyo building it?
Japan is establishing its first centralized intelligence agency since World War II to modernize its defense against foreign interference and espionage. The new National Intelligence Council will be supported by advice from Western allies.
Why it matters
This shift marks a significant change in Japan's post-war security posture, reflecting heightened geopolitical tensions in the Asia-Pacific region.
Japan plans to launch its first centralised intelligence body with help from Western allies.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Major policies of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi include building up Japan's defence and intelligence capabilities [File: Kim Kyung-Hoon/Reuters] By Marthe van der Wolf Published On 13 Jul 2026 13 Jul 2026 Japan is setting up its first centralised intelligence agency since World War II to try to modernise its defence capabilities against spies, foreign interference and other attacks from foreign adversaries.
Legislation to establish the new agency passed the upper house of Japan’s National Diet in May, a month after it cleared the lower house.
After decades of relying on US intelligence support and after a pacifist stance was enshrined in the Japanese Constitution, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi described this law as “a first step” towards strengthening the country’s espionage capabilities.
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