Trump said that Gabbard was ‘softer’ on Iran

US President Donald Trump has openly hinted at differences among his advisers on Iran. In his words, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard is ‘softer’ in her approach to Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, although he continues to express confidence in her.

Trump stressed that his position is tough and unequivocal – Iran, in his view, must not acquire a nuclear weapon.

At the same time, he conceded that a deal to curb Iran’s programme may be within reach, in contrast to his administration’s inconsistent statements. Some officials warned before the conflict that Iran was weeks away from a nuclear weapon, while others said its programme had already been weakened.

Vice President JD Vance has also expressed caution, and some Republicans have warned of the potential domestic political and economic costs of war. The tensions were underscored by the resignation of Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent, who questioned the imminence of the Iranian threat.

Iran continues to deny that its programme has military objectives.

(reuters, pir)