Tulsi Gabbard warned Trump against war with Iran

Reports indicate that former Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard warned President Donald Trump against launching a war with Iran prior to the commencement of Operation Epic Fury on February 28. According to findings from The Wall Street Journal, Gabbard advised the president that assassinating Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei would likely result in a more hardline regime more inclined to pursue nuclear weapons.

Gabbard also predicted that Tehran would respond by closing the Strait of Hormuz and attacking U.S. forces and regional allies. Following the outbreak of conflict, Iran has restricted passage through the Strait, causing disruptions in global energy markets and spikes in fuel prices.

While various officials and the vice president reportedly expressed concerns regarding the risks of war, the president was allegedly influenced by senior aides and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who suggested Iran was at its weakest point. Gabbard resigned from her position in May 2026, citing family reasons.