WELLINGTON: New Zealand’s domestic intelligence agency, the Security Intelligence Service (SIS), has publicly released its threat assessment report, revealing concerns about foreign interference by China, Iran, and Russia in the country.
In the report, Director-General of Security Andrew Hampton highlighted the importance of sharing more insights with the public. This marks a significant shift from the agency’s previous secretive approach, reflecting its commitment to greater transparency. This change in approach comes after criticism was directed at the agency and other intelligence organizations for focusing too heavily on the perceived threat of extremism, which resulted in being caught off guard when a white supremacist carried out a deadly attack on two Christchurch mosques in 2019.
Among the key findings of the report is the identification of foreign interference in New Zealand by China, Iran, and Russia. The report highlights that individuals with links to China’s ruling Communist Party have been targeting the country’s diverse Chinese communities as part of China’s broader efforts to advance its political, economic, and military influence in the Pacific. The SIS expressed concerns about ongoing Chinese intelligence activities within New Zealand.
New Zealand’s Allegations Against Iran, Russia and China
Iran was found to be engaged in societal interference through the monitoring and reporting on Iranian communities and dissident groups in the country. The agency noted that this activity has been carried out as part of Iran’s broader foreign policy objectives.
Russia’s actions in Ukraine were linked to a range of global challenges, including increased geopolitical competition, disruptions to supply chains, and efforts to engage in espionage and spread disinformation. Although Russia’s disinformation campaigns were not targeted specifically at New Zealand, they have influenced the views of some individuals within the country.
The report also emphasized the ongoing threat of violent extremism within New Zealand. While the agency did not identify any specific or credible plans for domestic terror attacks, it acknowledged the presence of individuals with the intent and capability to carry out such acts. The report also highlighted the use of inflammatory language and online abuse targeting marginalized communities, underscoring the need to address online radicalization.
