What is the primary mission of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)?

The primary mission of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is to support the President and national security policy. The CIA plays a crucial role in gathering, analyzing, and disseminating intelligence that informs national security decision-making. This support includes providing accurate, timely information about potential threats and the geopolitical landscape, which enables the President and other policymakers to make informed decisions regarding the safety and security of the nation.

The agency is focused on the intelligence community's broad objectives, relating to foreign intelligence and counterintelligence rather than managing military operations or engaging in domestic law enforcement activities. While military operations fall under the Department of Defense, the CIA's mission is more about intelligence gathering rather than executing these operations. Additionally, the National Security Council (NSC), which coordinates national security policy among various government agencies, does not operate under the direct oversight of the CIA, but rather serves as an advisory body that the CIA supports with relevant intelligence.