SIDE chief denies terrorist threats and coordinates security for papal visit

The head of Argentina’s State Intelligence Secretariat (SIDE), Cristian Auguadra, testified before the Bicameral Intelligence Commission to address security concerns and intelligence spending. During the closed-door meeting, officials stated there are currently no terrorist threats from Islamic organizations or far-left groups within the country.

A primary focus of the briefing was the security coordination for the upcoming visit of Pope Leo XIV, scheduled for November 9–11. Auguadra emphasized the state's responsibility to ensure the visit proceeds without incident.

Opposition legislators from Unión por la Patria expressed dissatisfaction with the session, noting that 120 previously submitted questions remained unanswered. The opposition also sought clarification regarding agreements with the FBI concerning the new National Antiterrorism Center and questioned the use of expanded powers granted under DNU 941/2025, specifically denying that any arrests had been made under the new decree.