Gabbard: Iran Regime 'Degraded' but Still Threat to U.S. Interests

U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard testified before the Senate Intelligence Committee that Iran's regime remains intact but largely degraded by U.S.-Israel military operations. She stated that Iran and its proxies are still capable of attacking U.S. and allied interests in the Middle East.

Gabbard declined to confirm whether Iran poses an imminent threat to the U.S., noting there is no evidence the regime seeks to rebuild its nuclear program. She emphasized that determining an imminent threat is the president's responsibility, not that of U.S. spy agencies.

The hearing highlighted tensions over the U.S. war in Iran, with lawmakers criticizing the lack of transparency. A top aide to Gabbard resigned, citing disagreement with the conflict, while CIA Director John Ratcliffe defended the administration's stance on Iran as a persistent threat.