Meaning: The quote you provided refers to a significant decision made in 1976 that had a profound impact on the operations and division of responsibilities between the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and foreign intelligence agencies. The decision aimed to create a clear demarcation between the domestic and foreign intelligence collection activities of these entities.

In 1976, a pivotal decision was made to distinctly separate the roles and jurisdictions of the FBI and foreign intelligence agencies. This decision had far-reaching implications for the intelligence community and law enforcement in the United States. It essentially delineated that the FBI would be primarily responsible for collecting intelligence within the United States, while foreign intelligence agencies would be tasked with gathering information overseas.

The decision to sharply divide the FBI and foreign intelligence agencies was a response to the need for a more focused and coordinated approach to intelligence collection and analysis. By clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of these agencies, the decision aimed to streamline operations and enhance the effectiveness of intelligence gathering efforts. This division was intended to prevent duplication of efforts and improve the overall efficiency of intelligence operations both domestically and abroad.

Bobby Inman, a respected figure in the intelligence community, referenced this decision, highlighting its significance in shaping the operations of the FBI and foreign intelligence agencies. Inman's acknowledgment of this decision underscores its enduring impact on the intelligence landscape and the strategic direction of these agencies.

The decision to separate the intelligence collection activities of the FBI and foreign intelligence agencies was driven by the recognition of the distinct nature of domestic and foreign intelligence requirements. The FBI, as the primary law enforcement agency in the United States, was entrusted with the responsibility of gathering intelligence within the country's borders to address domestic security concerns and criminal activities. On the other hand, foreign intelligence agencies, such as the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the National Security Agency (NSA), were tasked with conducting intelligence operations outside the United States to gather information on international threats, geopolitical developments, and foreign adversaries.

This division of responsibilities served to create a more specialized and targeted approach to intelligence gathering, allowing each agency to focus on its designated areas of operation without encroaching on the jurisdiction of the other. It also facilitated better coordination and information sharing between the FBI and foreign intelligence agencies, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of threats and security challenges both at home and abroad.

The decision made in 1976 to sharply divide the FBI and foreign intelligence agencies reflected a strategic realignment of intelligence functions, emphasizing the need for a more nuanced and tailored approach to intelligence collection and analysis. This shift in approach was intended to optimize the capabilities of each agency while fostering greater collaboration and synergy within the broader intelligence community.

In conclusion, the decision to sharply divide the FBI and foreign intelligence agencies in 1976 represented a pivotal moment in the evolution of intelligence operations in the United States. This decision, as referenced by Bobby Inman, underscored the importance of delineating the roles and responsibilities of these agencies to enhance their effectiveness and coordination. By establishing a clear division of labor between domestic and foreign intelligence activities, the decision sought to optimize the capabilities of the FBI and foreign intelligence agencies while fostering a more cohesive and targeted approach to intelligence gathering and analysis.