Former US spy chief Gabbard warned Trump killing Khamenei could empower radical regime – WSJ

Before the US-Israel war with Iran began in February, then-US President Donald Trump was reportedly warned by his intelligence chief, Tulsi Gabbard, that killing Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, could lead to a more radical regime and potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Senior national security officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine, also advised against a full-scale military assault, citing concerns about casualties and military readiness. Vice President JD Vance advocated for negotiations, suggesting that Iran's nuclear program could be dismantled through diplomatic means given its struggling economy. Despite these warnings, Trump ultimately dismissed the concerns and proceeded with the attack. Six months into the conflict, military clashes have paused, but tensions remain over the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's nuclear assets, and US sanctions.