Gabbard Steps Down as Director of US National Intelligence

Tulsi Gabbard has announced her resignation as director of national intelligence, citing the serious illness of her husband, who has been diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer.

Gabbard informed President Donald Trump of her decision during a meeting in the Oval Office. The resignation takes effect on 30 June. In her letter to the president, she thanked him for his trust and the opportunity to lead the office over the past year and a half.

"I cannot in good conscience ask him to face this fight alone while I continue in this demanding and time-consuming post", she said, referring to her husband's diagnosis.

Trump announced that deputy director Aaron Lukas would serve as interim intelligence chief. He thanked Gabbard for her work and said she wanted to support her husband during the "tough battle".

Reuters, citing a source familiar with the matter, reported that the White House had pushed Gabbard out of the role. Trump has previously hinted at differences with Gabbard over the approach to Iran and its nuclear program.

(reuters, bak)