The Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) stands as the preeminent and widely known component of Pakistan’s intricate intelligence apparatus. Established in 1948 following the first Kashmir war, the ISI has evolved into a powerful entity responsible for gathering, processing, and analyzing information crucial to safeguarding Pakistan’s national security interests. This introduction aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the ISI, exploring its historical roots, organizational structure, pivotal role in significant geopolitical events, and the controversies that have shrouded its existence.
Historical Background:
Established in 1948 after the first Kashmir war, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) originated as a response to intelligence shortcomings, with Major General Sir Robert Cawthome and Colonel Shahid Hamid at its helm. Initially tasked with external military and non-military intelligence, the ISI expanded its role post-1958 coup to encompass internal intelligence. The agency gained international recognition during the 1980s when, in collaboration with the CIA and UK’s Secret Intelligence Service, it spearheaded Operation Cyclone, supporting Afghan mujahideen against the Soviet Union. Throughout its history, the ISI has faced allegations of supporting militant groups and orchestrating major terrorist attacks, including the 2001 Indian Parliament attack and the 2008 Mumbai attacks. This multifaceted journey underscores the ISI’s evolution from a regional intelligence agency to a globally recognized entity, entwined with both strategic collaborations and controversies.
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Leadership milestone of ISI
The leadership milestones of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) span a diverse array of individuals, each leaving an indelible mark on the agency’s history. Syed Shahid Hamid, the first director-general from 1948 to 1950, laid the foundational groundwork for the ISI, focusing on external intelligence. Major General Robert Cawthome (1950-1959) steered the agency during a period of consolidation, setting the stage for subsequent developments. Notably, General Akhtar Abdur Rahman (1979-1987) played a pivotal role during the Soviet–Afghan War, overseeing the ISI’s collaboration with the CIA and guiding covert operations in Afghanistan.
The tenure of Lieutenant General Hameed Gul (1987-1989) marked a period of increased international visibility, with the ISI actively supporting the Afghan mujahideen. Shamsur Rahman Kallu (1989-1990) and Asad Durrani (1990-1992) continued this trajectory. The 1990s witnessed shifts in leadership with notable figures like Javed Nasir (1992-1993), who faced challenges related to regional conflicts.
Amidst these changes, the late 1990s saw significant geopolitical shifts, and the ISI’s leadership responded under the tenures of Ziauddin Butt (1998-1999), Mahmud Ahmed (1999-2001), and Ehsan ul Haq (2001-2004). The post-9/11 era brought about a new focus on counterterrorism, with leaders like Ashfaq Parvez Kayani (2004-2007) navigating the ISI through complex challenges.
The period from Ahmad Shuja Pasha’s leadership (2008-2012) saw intense scrutiny, particularly concerning allegations of ISI’s involvement in terrorist activities. Zaheerul Islam (2012-2014) and Rizwan Akhtar (2014-2016) faced challenges related to counterterrorism efforts and regional stability.
Naveed Mukhtar (2016-2018) and Asim Munir (2018-2019) led the ISI during times of heightened tensions in the region. Under Faiz Hameed’s leadership (2019-2021), the agency continued to grapple with evolving geopolitical dynamics. Nadeem Anjum, the current director-general as of November 2021, faces the ongoing challenge of maintaining the ISI’s effectiveness in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Financial and Personnel Strength of ISI:
The financial and personnel strength of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) are shrouded in secrecy, and concrete information is not publicly disclosed. However, some general aspects can be considered based on historical context and estimates:
Financial Strength:
The precise budget of the ISI is classified, and it operates under the defense budget of Pakistan. As an integral part of the country’s military establishment, the ISI receives funding for its operational expenses, personnel salaries, intelligence-gathering activities, and other strategic initiatives. The exact allocation is not publicly disclosed due to the sensitive nature of intelligence operations.
Personnel Strength:
The ISI is believed to be one of the largest intelligence agencies globally in terms of personnel. It draws its workforce from serving military officers on secondment from the three branches of the Pakistan Armed Forces – the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Additionally, civilians from various agencies, including the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), police, judiciary, and Ministry of Defence, are recruited on deputations for three to four years.
Estimates of the total number of ISI personnel vary, but it is generally understood to have a significant workforce. The personnel structure includes officers, analysts, field operatives, and support staff. It is important to note that these figures are speculative, as the exact number of personnel and their specific roles are kept confidential for security reasons.
The ISI’s organizational structure includes various wings and directorates, such as the Internal Wing, External Wing, and Foreign Relations Wing, each with its specific functions. Additionally, there are specialized departments like the Covert Action Division and Joint Intelligence X, highlighting the agency’s diverse operational capabilities.
In summary, the financial and personnel strength of the ISI remains closely guarded, and specific details are not publicly disclosed. The agency operates under the broader defense budget of Pakistan, and its personnel composition includes military officers from different branches, as well as civilian experts on deputation. The exact numbers and financial allocations are classified to maintain the confidentiality and effectiveness of the ISI’s intelligence operations.
Strengths of ISI:
The Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) boasts a formidable set of strengths that contribute to its significance in the realm of intelligence agencies. With a rich operational history, particularly marked by its pivotal role in the Soviet–Afghan War and collaborations with international agencies, the ISI possesses unparalleled operational experience. Its integration with the Pakistan Armed Forces ensures direct access to military resources, fostering seamless coordination and responsiveness to security threats. Positioned strategically in South Asia, the ISI’s adaptability to evolving geopolitical dynamics and its demonstrated capability for covert operations underscore its crucial role in safeguarding Pakistan’s national security.
Weaknesses of ISI:
However, the ISI contends with several weaknesses that warrant consideration. Criticisms have emerged regarding its perceived lack of civilian oversight, raising concerns about accountability and potential overreach. Persistent allegations of supporting militant groups, involvement in controversial covert activities, and human rights concerns, including reported extrajudicial actions, have marred the agency’s international image. Striking a delicate balance in civil-military relations, addressing challenges in counterterrorism strategies, and navigating diplomatic fallout from alleged covert activities in neighboring countries represent ongoing weaknesses that require careful consideration for the ISI’s long-term effectiveness and credibility.
