President Donald Trump has reportedly consulted with senior cabinet officials regarding the possible replacement of Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. The internal discussions, first reported by The Guardian on Thursday, follow weeks of growing friction between the President and the nation’s top intelligence official over the ongoing war with Iran.
The tension centers on Gabbard’s alleged protection of Joe Kent, the former director of the National Counterterrorism Center. Kent resigned on March 17 in a high-profile protest, stating that Iran posed "no imminent threat" to the United States. His claims directly challenged the administration’s stated justification for launching military strikes during Operation Midnight Hammer.
Gabbard has faced criticism from within the West Wing for failing to condemn Kent’s public dissent. Furthermore, during a worldwide threats hearing on March 18, Gabbard testified that Iran’s nuclear enrichment program had been "obliterated" by earlier U.S. strikes. President Trump publicly countered her assessment, telling reporters, "She’s wrong," and insisting the threat remained active.
According to sources briefed on the matter, the President is polling advisers to determine if a leadership change at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence is necessary. Some officials are reportedly concerned that a high-profile vacancy during active military operations could create an unhelpful political distraction.
White House spokesperson Steven Cheung defended Gabbard in a statement, noting the President has expressed "confidence" in the tireless work she is doing. Olivia Coleman, a spokesperson for Gabbard, added that the Director remains committed to her responsibilities and pointed to her successful confirmation and recent reforms within the intelligence enterprise.
The reported rift comes at a critical moment for U.S. foreign policy. On April 1, President Trump addressed the nation, reiterating threats to strike Iranian infrastructure if a ceasefire is not reached shortly. The internal division highlights a broader debate within the administration regarding the intelligence used to sustain the conflict.
Public reaction has been polarized, reflecting broader national sentiments about the war. While some supporters view Gabbard’s stance as a check on escalation, others view any deviation from the President’s narrative as a lapse in loyalty. As of Thursday afternoon, Gabbard remains in her post while the administration weighs its next steps.