Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has raised fresh concerns about the growing risk of nuclear war in a video she posted on her personal X account (formerly Twitter). Her message comes as a strong contrast to past statements made by former President Donald Trump on this issue.
Reflection After Hiroshima Visit
Gabbard, who recently visited Hiroshima, Japan, shared emotional reflections on the horrific destruction caused by the atomic bomb during World War II. In her video, she warned that political elites and warmongers are fueling fear and tensions, pushing the world dangerously close to “nuclear annihilation.”
“This is not science fiction. This is the harsh reality we face today,” Gabbard said, standing at several historic landmarks in Hiroshima.
Simulated Nuclear Attack Shown in Video
The three-minute video also includes a simulation of a nuclear attack on San Francisco, California, showing the destruction of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Gabbard emphasized that these risks are very real and not just theoretical possibilities.
Recent Global Meetings Add Weight to Message
Her video was shared shortly after she attended the Shangri-La Dialogue—a major Asian security summit held in Singapore earlier this month. This timing highlights the increasing global focus on nuclear threats and international tensions.
Political Elite Accused of Ignoring Public Safety
In the video, Gabbard accused global leaders of playing dangerous games with nuclear weapons, suggesting they feel safe because they have access to nuclear shelters that ordinary citizens do not.
“They’re gambling with our lives because they have safety nets that we don’t,” she warned.
She urged the public to “speak up and demand an end to this madness,” calling for global efforts to prevent nuclear war and ensure peace and safety for all.
Contrasting Views With Donald Trump
Gabbard’s warning sharply contrasts with previous statements made by Donald Trump. In 2016, Trump criticized then-President Barack Obama for visiting Hiroshima, calling it unnecessary. More recently, in 2024, Trump justified the bombing of Hiroshima, saying it ended World War II, although he acknowledged its horror.
However, Gabbard’s office stated that she and Trump share the common goal of preventing nuclear war and pursuing global peace.
“President Trump has always recognized the devastating consequences of nuclear war. Both he and Director Gabbard are committed to doing everything possible to maintain peace,” said Alexa Henning, Gabbard’s deputy chief of staff.
Past Criticism of U.S. Foreign Policy
Gabbard has long criticized U.S. foreign policy, including during her 2019 Democratic presidential campaign. She blamed Trump for pulling out of the Iran nuclear deal, warning it pushed the U.S. closer to war with Iran and increased the risk of nuclear conflict.
Shift in Focus After Supporting Trump
Since endorsing Trump’s 2024 campaign as an independent, Gabbard has shifted her focus to criticize the Biden-Harris administration. She claims their foreign policies have put the U.S. in danger of multiple wars and heightened the risk of nuclear confrontation.
“The Biden administration has brought us closer to nuclear war than ever before,” Gabbard said at the National Guard Association conference.
Growing Nuclear Tensions Call for Action
As nuclear risks rise amid global conflicts involving powers like Russia, China, and Iran, Gabbard continues to push for serious discussions and actions to avoid a global nuclear disaster.
