Japan’s Cabinet approved the launch of a new National Intelligence Bureau for counterespionage, set to begin operations on July 31, with its director appointed as Kazuya Hara, a veteran of Cabinet intelligence and former National Police Agency official.

The Bureau will serve as the secretariat to the National Intelligence Council and is part of a broader push to strengthen intelligence capabilities, potentially paving the way for additional counterespionage legislation.

Plans are moving to establish a national intelligence council as early as July 2026 to tighten control over intelligence gathering and analysis.

Officials acknowledge concerns that these measures could infringe on human rights, highlighting a balance between security improvements and civil liberties.

Efforts continue to submit related legislation and address broader issues of foreign influence and intelligence governance.

Officials described the move as significant in a challenging international environment, aiming to deliver higher-quality, timely intelligence for policy decisions while facing scrutiny over civil liberties and democratic oversight.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said the launch is significant for enabling sound policy decisions based on better and timelier intelligence amid a complex global landscape.

The reform is framed as a response to the international environment, designed to support more precise decision-making through superior intelligence.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s administration intends to accelerate discussions on countermeasures against foreign espionage and training for intelligence personnel as part of broader enhancements.

The moves have sparked concerns about increased citizen surveillance, government overreach, and the need for strong democratic oversight to safeguard human rights and prevent abuse.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara praised Kazuya Hara’s intelligence experience and reiterated expectations that he will fulfill his duties effectively.

The bureau will be staffed by about 700 personnel and will coordinate intelligence gathering and analysis across the government, serving as the secretariat for the new National Intelligence Council, which includes the prime minister and relevant ministers.