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New York Post
4 hours ago
- Politics
- New York Post
Where's Tulsi Gabbard? Intelligence director missing from key moments as insiders say she's been ‘wrong on the big stuff'
WASHINGTON — President Trump's strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities were the result of 15 years of intel work, the Pentagon said Thursday — but Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard curiously was missing from key moments before and after the raid. The ex-Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii — an outspoken opponent of US military intervention in the Middle East — now faces the perception that she's being shunted to the side by the commander-in-chief, with CIA Director John Ratcliffe, who previously held her job, taking on a larger profile. Gabbard, 44, was missing from an intelligence briefing with Congress on Thursday, where Ratcliffe gave lawmakers classified details of the Saturday strike. She also was excluded from a June 8 national security pow-wow at Camp David, where Trump began to shape his plans for Iran with Ratcliffe and other key leaders, such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Two days after that meeting — to which administration officials told Fox News Gabbard was not invited — she released what one person close to the administration described as a 'fear-mongering' video on the dangers of nuclear war, in what was seen as a swipe against a preemptive strike. 3 CIA Director John Ratcliffe and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard meet in the Situation Room of the White House on June 21, 2025. via REUTERS 'That narrative played directly into the hands of those who did not support the president's then-upcoming bold decision to obliterate Tehran's nuclear program,' the source said. The sentiment exemplified what an administration official who told The Post this week: 'She's been wrong on the big stuff. Trump made headlines earlier this month when he twice split from his intelligence chief's assessment that Iran wasn't close to building nuclear bombs. 'I don't care what she said. I think they were very close to having one,' Trump said of Gabbard while aboard Air Force One on June 17. 3 President Trump disagreed with Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard's assessment that Iran had not yet decided to build a nuclear weapon. AP Gabbard endorsed Trump last year largely on foreign policy grounds after repeatedly slamming mainstream Democrats and pre-Trump Republicans for promoting regime change abroad. As a Democratic presidential primary candidate in 2020, she hawked T-shirts reading 'No War With Iran' — launching them two days after Trump ordered the assassination of Iranian Gen. Qasem Soleimani. Still, multiple insiders said they don't believe Gabbard is in danger of getting fired — and a White House official who saw Gabbard Friday before she briefed Trump in the Oval Office detected no signs of tension, calling speculation that she's on the ropes 'bogus.' Gabbard was among the senior leaders who joined Trump in the situation room during the daring bombing mission on Saturday. And internal disagreements among his aides often are welcomed by Trump, particularly on foreign policy. Some sources, however, foresee her role being reduced as Ratcliffe, a former Texas Republican congressman, asserts more influence on intelligence strategy. It comes as Senate Intelligence Committee chairman Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) seeks to cut Gabbard's staff from roughly 1,600 to just 650, a senior Senate aide familiar with the proposed legislation told NBC News Friday. 3 The Pentagon released jaw-dropping footage showcasing a test of the 30,000-pound heavy-duty bunker buster bombs that were used against Iran. Department of Defense Trump has been more hesitant to oust leaders in his administration this year than he was in his first term. There have been no changes in his cabinet, aside from the rerouting of former National Security Adviser Mike Waltz to US ambassador to the United Nations, following his mistakenly adding a reporter to a Signal chat about air strikes in Yemen. Gabbard's office did not offer a comment for this story. Additional reporting by Steven Nelson
Indian Express
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Heads of State review: The action comedy starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas, John Cena and Idris Elba is packed with fun and flair
MARKING her continued ascent as an action star, Priyanka Chopra Jonas steps into the boots of Noel Bisset, an elite MI6 agent, to protect two of the world's most high-profile leaders – John Cena as Will Derringer, an action star turned the President of the United States, and Idris Elba as Sam Clarke, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. In this buddy action comedy, Clarke and Derringer, who constantly exchange barbs and make their dislike for each other public, eventually team up to save themselves and the world. The two heads of the state are forced to parachute out of Air Force One when the aircraft is attacked and their security is compromised. They land in a border area of Belarus and make their way to Warshaw in a sheep truck. From then on, the film packs a series of cross country chases, gunfights and fisticuffs that are aimed at keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. The movie, however, starts with Noel Bissett getting grievously injured during a visit to Spain's Buñol on a mission when people are celebrating La Tomatina festival. Turns out she has not only survived that but she is entrusted with the task of ensuring the safety of Clarke and Derringer, who become the targets of a powerful and ruthless foreign adversary. Bissett and Clarke, it is also revealed, were connected romantically in the past while working in the forces. Caught in life-threatening situations as they are forced to rely on each other, Clarke and Derringer are also united in their belief regarding what makes the world a better place. Together they have to find a way to work together to thwart a global conspiracy that threatens the entire free world and make sure NATO continues to fulfil its objectives. A little focus on this crisis would have given the narrative more depth. ALSO READ | Priya Sachdev called Karisma Kapoor-Sunjay Kapur's kids her own, said 'friendship' is the key: 'We have four children' Even though the film occasionally becomes predictable, it remains engaging thanks to its three lead actors and slickly choreographed action sequences. As the ever-optimistic President, John Cena delivers a likable performance, while Idris Elba brings his signature coolness and wry British humour. Chopra, who Jonas has appeared as an action star in a host of movies (Don, Mary Kom) as well as series (Quantico and Citadel), in the Ilya Naishuller-directed film, seems most comfortable enacting the high-energy action scenes. The banter between the heads of state is enjoyable, if not uproariously funny. The camaraderie between Cena and Elba adds a spark to many scenes. Chopra Jonas handles the physically demanding stunts with ease. While the script by Josh Applebaum, André Nemec, and Harrison Query doesn't offer many surprises, it leans into its wacky tone to deliver a consistently entertaining action-comedy. Streaming on Prime Video from June 2. Director: Ilya Naishuller Cast: John Cena, Idris Elba, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Jack Quaid, Paddy Considine, Stephen Root, Carla Gugino Rating: 3 Stars
Pink Villa
9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Heads of State Review: John Cena and Idris Elba's hilariously entertaining buddy comedy gets elevated further by Priyanka Chopra's kickass action
Plot Heads Of State centers on UK Prime Minister Sam Clarke (Idris Elba) and US President Will Derringer (John Cena), two leaders whose public rivalry has strained their nations' alliance. A foreign enemy launches a coordinated attack when the two are aboard a private jet, Air Force One. The reason that they travel together is to build themselves a good public image, which will help them remain in power. The security is totally compromised because of the attack. After the jet is shot down, the duo is pronounced dead while they aren't actually dead. MI6 agent Noel Bisset (Priyanka Chopra) hunts them down and carries out her mission to protect the two very important people. On the run across Europe, they dodge relentless assassins and uncover a global conspiracy threatening world stability. The trio must rely on their wits and unlikely bond to stop what the enemies have conspired against them. Can they outwit their enemies? Will Sam and Will be able to sort out their differences? What happens to Noel? Watch Heads Of State to find out. What Works for Heads of State Heads Of State is a high-energy thrill ride. The action is massive, with stunning stunts and global set pieces that grab your attention. The pace keeps you thoroughly engaged. The camaraderie between John Cena and Idris Elba is a highlight. Their witty banter is to die for. Priyanka Chopra shines in action-packed moments. Her puns throughout the film are pun-tastic. What Doesn't Work for Heads of State Watch the Heads Of State Trailer Performances in Heads of State Idris Elba is captivating and charismatic as Sam Clarke. He, very easily, blends toughness with sly humor. John Cena is a riot as Will Derringer. His comic timing elevates their dynamic. Idris and John's chemistry, evolving from rivals to allies, drives the film. Priyanka Chopra is electric as Noel Bisset. She really is badass, and her kicks and punches can shake you up. Jack Quaid brings his quirky energy. His scenes are very breezy and enjoyable. Considine, Gugino, and Stephen Root lend able support to the ensemble. Other actors in the movie perform as per the film's requirements. Final Verdict of Heads of State Heads Of State is a wildly entertaining action-comedy that delivers big. The chemistry between John Cena and Idris Elba, paired with Priyanka's action prowess, makes it a standout. The grand scale, and sharp humor elevate the experience. Despite a routine story and slight pacing hiccups, the film's fun factor is undeniable. The movie streams on Prime Video from 2nd July, 2025. Stay tuned to Pinkvilla for more updates on Heads Of State.
Yomiuri Shimbun
17 hours ago
- Business
- Yomiuri Shimbun
Treat Trump as a Politician, Not a Businessman; These Days, the President May Not Want a ‘Deal'
Is U.S. President Donald Trump a politician or a businessman? The answer varies depending on who you ask. During my tenure as a Washington correspondent for The Yomiuri Shimbun from January 2021 to November 2024, I heard both perspectives across the country. Answering this question can help resolve the issue of how Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba should deal with Trump. When I spoke to Trump supporters at his rallies, I always tried to ask why they supported him. The majority answered, 'Because he's a businessman.' They believed in Trump's strong position on the economy and his understanding of the hearts of workers. Even Trump himself knows that he is more attractive to his supporters if he remains seen as a businessman. However, the image of Trump that I formed while closely following him as a correspondent for the four years between his two administrations is completely different from the views of his supporters. From my perspective, he was a genuine politician and a former president. Every time I heard Trump supporters' comments about him being a businessman, I muttered to myself: 'It's a facade. It's a misunderstanding.' But this had not been my first impression of him. In January 2021, shortly after I was assigned as a Washington correspondent and as Trump was leaving office, he independently organized his own farewell ceremony at Joint Base Andrews in the Washington suburbs after skipping President Joe Biden's inauguration ceremony. The song playing as Air Force One took off was 'My Way.' The lyrics 'I've had my fill, my share of losing' made me certain he would never return to the White House. Most people in Washington would have thought the same way at the time. The job of a politician is simply too risky in many ways and no financial gain was expected for Trump. However, my prediction was proven wrong when he announced he would run again for president. Even after being indicted on four charges, he repeatedly criticized such moves as a 'witch hunt' carried out by the Department of Justice and the Biden administration. He faced a number of civil lawsuits and was ordered to pay millions of dollars. If he had returned to being a businessman, it was doubtful he would have faced such judicial pressure. Moreover, Trump was shot at a rally in Pennsylvania last July. He nearly lost his life, but he turned his brush with death into a political opportunity. The man I observed over the past four years was not a businessman, but a tough politician with a greed for power. Last December, I returned to Nagatacho, the area of Tokyo regarded as the heart of Japanese politics, as a political reporter. I was anxious when I heard that the prime minister had told his staff that Trump was a businessman, because I thought that if he negotiated business-like deals with Trump, I could not see a favorable outcome. In fact, shortly after taking office, Ishiba sought advice on Trump from Japanese businessmen. In January of this year, he met with Masayoshi Son, chairman and president of SoftBank Group, and asked him for advice on how to deal with Trump. Son is a longtime business friend of Trump, who calls him 'Masa.' However, Japanese diplomats and government officials who had been observing Trump in Washington were having the same thoughts as me. They began to turn the tide. While there were contradictions between what the diplomats said and what Son said, the prime minister began to listen to diplomats' advice on how to deal with Trump. The diplomats' persistent persuasion finally got the prime minister to adjust his perspective. The Japan-U.S. summit meeting in February was a successful one. Ishiba paid the utmost respect to Trump as a politician. At the press conference after the summit, Trump described Ishiba positively as 'going to be a great one.' He also commented, 'I've gotten to know him, not for long, but I can see what they have.' At the second summit between the two leaders in Canada in June, both of them avoided trying to reach a deal on the 'Trump tariffs.' Trump doesn't always want a deal, because he is no longer a businessman. He is now a politician who prioritizes national interests and reputation, and cares about the results of elections as Ishiba does. It seems to me that continuing negotiations was a sensible choice for Ishiba. After the summit, Trump again referred to Ishiba, saying: 'I think he's going to do a very good job. The Japanese are tough.' This remark suggests that Ishiba is valued as a counterpart by Trump, one step toward achieving Ishiba's goal of protecting Japanese industries. It has been 40 years since Ishiba was first elected to the Diet in his twenties, joining the political world after a career in banking. Prime Minister Ishiba, stay a politician. I believe that is the stance that will guide Japan-U.S. negotiations down the right path for the country of Japan. Political Pulse appears every Saturday. Hiroshi Tajima Hiroshi Tajima is a staff writer in the Political News Department of The Yomiuri Shimbun.
Express Tribune
a day ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
White House posts 'Daddy's Home' video as Donald Trump embraces nickname from NATO chief
The White House has released a video marking President Donald Trump's return from the NATO summit in the Netherlands, set to Usher's 2010 track 'Hey Daddy (Daddy's Home).' 🎶 Daddy's home… Hey, hey, hey, Daddy. President Donald J. Trump attended the NATO Summit in The Hague, Netherlands. — The White House (@WhiteHouse) June 26, 2025 The social media clip, which features Trump disembarking Air Force One and footage from the summit, follows a light-hearted remark made by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, who jokingly referred to the president as 'daddy' during their meeting. The comment arose while the leaders were discussing the collapse of a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Rutte remarked, 'And then daddy has to, sometimes, use strong language,' referencing Trump's earlier remarks on the conflict. Trump replied with a laugh, 'Strong language, yeah, every once and a while.' Asked later whether the nickname implied a paternalistic view of allies, Trump said Rutte 'did it very affectionately' and added, 'Daddy, you're my daddy.' Secretary of State Marco Rubio, present during the exchange, was seen reacting with laughter. Rutte later clarified his comment, explaining that it reflected concerns he hears from European countries about continued US support, saying the dynamic is like 'a small child asking his daddy, 'Hey, are you still staying with the family?'' The video's release drew a mix of amusement and discomfort across social platforms, with some calling it inappropriate or out of touch given recent international tensions. This is not the first time Trump has been called 'daddy' in political discourse. In 2024, pundit Tucker Carlson made similar remarks during a campaign rally, describing Trump as a disciplinary father figure.
