The Second Bureau or Deuxième Bureau (French for "second office", Arabic: المكتب الثاني) was Lebanon's primary military intelligence agency during the mid-20th century, which was particularly active from the 1950s to the 1970s, when it played a crucial role during the periods of conflict and political instability, when it was restructured and given additional powers by President Fouad Chehab, after the 1961 failed military coup against him by the Syrian Social Nationalist Party (SSNP),[1][2] in order to strengthen the National security services.
The Bureau gained substantial power in the early 1950s,[5] particularly under the leadership of Colonel Antoine Saad,[1] who is often credited with shaping its operational strategies and expanding its reach within Lebanese society.
[7][6] The agency was involved in monitoring political opposition, especially groups considered to be aligned with foreign powers, like Nasserist Arab nationalists or leftist movements during the Cold War era.
The Second Bureau left a lasting impact on Lebanon's intelligence apparatus, but its reputation for political manipulation, surveillance, and human rights abuses tarnished its image.
[9] It was often viewed through the lens of Lebanon's sectarian divisions,[10] with accusations that it favored certain political factions,[10] particularly the Christian Maronite leadership, over others.