Information Branch
Lebanese Intelligence Unit
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Information Department (Arabic: شعبة المعلومات), commonly known as the Information Branch (Arabic: فرع المعلومات) or the Information (Arabic: المعلومات), is the intelligence unit of the Internal Security Forces Directorate (Arabic: المديرية العامة لقوى الأمن الداخلي). It is mainly tasked with gathering, processing, and analyzing national and military intelligence, counterintelligence,[1] counterterrorism,[2][3][4][5] criminal investigation,[6][7][8][9][10][11] and espionage.
| Agency overview | |
|---|---|
| Formed | August 6, 1993 |
| Headquarters | Beirut, Lebanon |
| Employees | Classified |
| Annual budget | Classified |
| Agency executives |
|
| Parent department | Internal Security Forces Directorate |
| Website | https://isf.gov.lb/en/article/183/ |
Acting as a counterweight to the Intelligence Directorate of the Lebanese Armed Forces (Arabic: مديرية المخابرات في الجيش اللبناني), it was extensively trained and supplied by the United States, France, and Germany. Having undergone training in the Alps, its Strike Force (Arabic: القوة الضاربة) is equipped with advanced firearms and devices.[12]
Recognized as one of the most powerful intelligence agencies in the Middle East,[13] its executives and officers have been subject to targeted assassinations and assassination attempts.[14]
In popular culture
TV Series
- Lebanese TV Series "2020" and it's sequel "2024" talk about the Information Branch's role and capabilities in counterterrorism.
- Lebanese TV Series "Al Ameel" showcase the Information Branch's role in stopping smuggling.