Trending Now - Gabbard Under Scrutiny for Iran Nuclear Intelligence Statements

WHO:

Tulsi Gabbard, US Director of National Intelligence

Democratic senators

WHAT:

Gabbard was questioned over perceived discrepancies between White House and intelligence community claims on Iran's nuclear enrichment capabilities.

Gabbard stated in her pre-written opening statement: "As a result of Operation Midnight Hammer, Iran’s nuclear enrichment program was obliterated. There has been no efforts since then to try to rebuild their enrichment capability."

In her oral statement, Gabbard said: "prior to Operation Epic Fury, the IC assesses Iran was trying to recover from the severe damage to its nuclear infrastructure sustained during the 12 Day War and continued to refuse to comply with its nuclear obligations with the IAEA, refusing them access to key facilities."

Gabbard indicated she changed her statement to save time.

WHEN:

The questioning occurred on March 18th, 2026.

The 12 Day War referenced in Gabbard's statement occurred prior to her statements in 2026.

WHY:

The questioning was prompted by perceived discrepancies in statements regarding Iran's nuclear capabilities.

HOW:

Gabbard provided a pre-written statement and an oral statement during her questioning by the Senate Intelligence Committee.

(UPDATED March 18, 2026 23:16 UTC)

Yesterday, Tulsi Gabbard, the US Director of National Intelligence, faced questioning from Democratic senators regarding discrepancies between White House and intelligence community claims about Iran's nuclear enrichment capabilities. In her pre-written statement, Gabbard asserted that Operation Midnight Hammer had obliterated Iran’s nuclear program, while in her oral remarks, she noted that prior to Operation Epic Fury, intelligence assessments indicated Iran was attempting to recover from damage sustained during the 12 Day War and was not complying with its nuclear obligations. Gabbard also mentioned that she adjusted her statement to save time during the questioning.