Internal Security Service
Internal Security Service is the national security agency of the Sultanate of Oman. The agency focuses solely upon domestic security while foreign intelligence operations is specifically handled by the Palace Office, which controls external security and coordinates all intelligence and security policies.
The stated overall purpose of ISS is to investigates all matters related to internal security. The ISS also leads on Omani counter terrorism procedures and outreach activities.
History
The ISS can trace its history back to the intelligence and security structures set up using British military intelligence expertise as part of Sultan Said's armed forces in the 1950s. HM Sultan Qaboos developed the capability, and the Oman Intelligence Service became the Oman Research Department, with its main focus being supporting counter-insurgency operations in the Dhofar Region in the 1970s. The ORD was re-titled the ISS in 1987.The ISS is known to have offices in Qurum and Salalah in Dhofar.
In 1994 and 2005 there were attempted coups against the Sultan's rule and the ISS would have been instrumental in uncovering and investigating the plots.