White House Reveals Tulsi Gabbard's Role in Iran Conflict

Former anti-war advocate now part of administration that bombed Iranian nuclear facilities

Mar. 3, 2026 at 4:31am

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Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, was reportedly present in the White House Situation Room as the U.S. and Israel bombed Iran's nuclear facilities, despite her previous vocal opposition to such military action. Critics quickly resurfaced Gabbard's old posts and comments condemning war with Iran, highlighting an apparent shift in her stance.

Why it matters

Gabbard's presence in the Situation Room during the Iran strikes raises questions about her credibility and commitment to her past anti-war positions, which were a central part of her political identity and presidential campaign. Her reversal on the Iran issue could undermine public trust in the intelligence community and fuel accusations of political opportunism.

The details

According to a White House photo, Gabbard was present alongside Vice President JD Vance, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bissent during the Iran strikes. This comes after Gabbard previously stated that the intelligence community assessed Iran was not building a nuclear weapon, contradicting the president's claims. However, Gabbard later reversed course, saying Iran could produce a nuclear weapon within weeks or months.

  • In March 2026, Gabbard announced that the intelligence community found no evidence Iran was building a nuclear weapon.
  • In June 2026, the U.S. bombed Iranian nuclear facilities, with Gabbard present in the White House Situation Room.
  • In 2020, Gabbard sold t-shirts opposing war with Iran, suggesting it was a waste of money and lives.

The players

Tulsi Gabbard

The Director of National Intelligence, who previously took staunchly anti-war stances during her congressional career and presidential run, but is now part of an administration that has bombed Iran.

JD Vance

The Vice President, who was also present in the White House Situation Room during the Iran strikes.

Chris Wright

The Energy Secretary, who was present in the White House Situation Room during the Iran strikes.

Scott Bissent

The Treasury Secretary, who was present in the White House Situation Room during the Iran strikes.

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What they’re saying

“The dishonest media is intentionally taking my testimony out of context and spreading fake news as a way to manufacture division.”

— Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence

What’s next

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The takeaway

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