Overview
- Trump publicly challenged Gabbard’s assessment of Iran’s nuclear threat, signaling displeasure with her off-message commentary.
- Several sources report that simmering frustrations with her Middle East messaging led Trump to sideline her from critical intelligence briefings.
- A three-minute social media video in which Gabbard warned of "nuclear annihilation" was interpreted by Trump as a criticism of his consideration of Israeli action against Iran.
- With Gabbard sidelined, the president has leaned more heavily on CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President J.D. Vance for intelligence and policy guidance.
- Her office asserts she remains dedicated to delivering accurate intelligence and is not facing imminent dismissal.