Foreign Surveillance and Intelligence Gathering

Assistant Secretary of State for Intelligence and Research Brett Holmgren discussed foreign surveillance and intelligence gathering and its impact on U.S. diplomacy abroad during an event hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Much of the conversation focused on Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which authorizes the intelligence community to access the communications of non-U.S. persons outside of the United States. Mr. Holmgren touched on the importance of Section 702 as an integral tool in intelligence gathering, privacy protections, and how Section 702 enhances diplomatic relations with friends and allies. He also urged Congress to renew Section 702, set to expire on December 31, 2023. close