Washington, March 19 (NationPress) FBI Director Kash Patel stood his ground against lawmakers today, vigorously defending the bureau’s proactive stance on counterterrorism and law enforcement as senators questioned him regarding surveillance, resources, and the shifting landscape of threats.

The Indian American FBI head adopted a strong and assertive demeanor during the Senate Intelligence Committee hearing on Wednesday (local time), consistently emphasizing operational achievements and dismissing criticisms directed at the bureau’s methods.

Patel pointed to the recent thwarting of terrorist plots as proof that the FBI’s strategies are effective.

“We at the FBI have prevented four terrorist attacks… three of which were inspired by ISIS,” he stated, referencing coordinated efforts across several states.

He contended that the threat landscape has changed rapidly, necessitating a more proactive and tech-savvy response.

“They have shifted their capabilities… to online recruitment, which enhances the power of any terrorist organization,” Patel said, noting the increasing role of digital platforms in extremist networks.

When questioned by Senator Ron Wyden about surveillance methods, Patel staunchly defended the FBI’s use of commercially available data.

“The FBI employs all tools… in accordance with the Constitution and the law,” he asserted, countering claims that the bureau was overstepping its legal limits.

He highlighted that intelligence gathering and enforcement actions are carried out within established legal frameworks, even as threats become increasingly intricate and dispersed.

Patel also stressed the bureau’s enhanced collaboration with other agencies, detailing a nationwide operational expansion.

“We have established 59 Homeland Security task forces across the nation,” he noted, emphasizing collaborative efforts with federal and local partners.

In response to inquiries, Patel mentioned a “double-digit increase” in intelligence production alongside a similar rise in biometric data collection, enabling authorities to identify and monitor threats more effectively.

Patel brought attention to the escalating risks posed by transnational crime and cyber-enabled fraud, particularly large-scale scam operations abroad.

“There are actual compounds… that are defrauding Americans,” he remarked, describing operations based in Southeast Asia.

He indicated that the FBI is collaborating with foreign governments to dismantle these networks, including initiatives to shut down the infrastructure supporting such scams.

Throughout the hearing, Patel consistently framed the bureau’s actions as essential for staying ahead of rapidly evolving threats, especially in the digital realm.

He also justified deeper collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security and other agencies, arguing that increased manpower and shared intelligence are vital.

“What we’re doing… is empowering their substantial workforce to supplement ours,” he concluded.