British MI6 Tops European Intelligence Agencies Ranking, Mossad Rated Among Best

A recent survey by the French weekly L'Express ranked European intelligence agencies based on peer evaluations from 60 agents across 25 organizations. The ranking assessed agencies on infiltration capabilities, targeted assassinations and sabotage, and intelligence gathering including cyber operations. The British MI6 emerged as the top European agency, followed by France's DGSE. The MI6 is led by a woman, Blayze Matroveli, and is praised for its deep infiltration into Russia, China, Iran, and Turkey, as well as for recruiting elite university graduates years in advance.

The French DGSE was noted for its global reach and balanced expertise, while the Netherlands ranked third, recognized for its cyber operations and collaboration with the US, including involvement in the 2007 Stuxnet cyberattack on Iran. Germany ranked fifth, criticized by some as bureaucratic, though its BND intelligence service was credited with significant cyber espionage achievements. Ukraine's intelligence services also gained respect for their sophistication amid ongoing conflict.

Poland was valued but seen as politically influenced, and Hungary's intelligence agency was criticized for political manipulation under former Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The Scandinavian-Baltic bloc faces challenges from Russian espionage.

Israel was not formally included in the survey but was represented by former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen, who spoke openly. The survey's deputy editor, Etienne Girard, told Ynet and Yedioth Ahronoth that Mossad would likely rank second or third globally, praised for its Middle East expertise, targeted assassinations like the "Bipers" operation, and cyber capabilities. Despite political complexities, Mossad remains a respected ally among European agencies. The recent October 7 events did not diminish Mossad's offensive reputation but highlighted the importance of coordination between intelligence and political leadership.

Girard also noted that while the US remains the global intelligence leader, European agencies are seeking to reduce dependence on American intelligence post-Trump administration. The survey reveals intense cooperation and rivalry within the European intelligence community, emphasizing specialization and operational excellence as keys to influence.