What is the role of the FBI?

The role of the FBI encompasses investigating and enforcing federal laws as well as addressing national security issues, making it a vital component of the United States' law enforcement and intelligence apparatus. The FBI is tasked with various responsibilities including combating terrorism, cybercrime, public corruption, organized crime, white-collar crime, and violent crime, among others.

This role is crucial because federal laws often pertain to matters that cross state lines or involve federal interests, requiring a national investigative body. Additionally, the FBI engages in gathering intelligence to protect national security, thereby playing a significant role in both law enforcement and national defense.

Overseeing state laws and local law enforcement is not within the FBI's direct jurisdiction; instead, they work to support and collaborate with these entities when cases require federal intervention. Legal counsel to federal agencies is typically provided by the Department of Justice, not the FBI. Drafting international treaties and agreements falls under the purview of the executive branch and the State Department, not the FBI's primary functions.