John Bolton Suggests Syria May Have 'Interesting' Files on Tulsi Gabbard

President-elect Donald Trump's selection of former Representative Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence (DNI) has sparked debate over her foreign policy record, particularly concerning Syria. Gabbard, a U.S. Army National Guard veteran and former Democratic congresswoman, rose to prominence for her anti-interventionist stance, criticizing Trump's withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal and later joining the Republican Party to endorse his 2024 campaign.

Gabbard’s controversial 2017 visit to Syria to meet President Bashar al-Assad, amidst accusations of his regime’s use of chemical weapons, has drawn sharp criticism. Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley recently highlighted this incident, calling Gabbard's skepticism about Assad's culpability "disgusting." Gabbard has consistently opposed U.S.-backed regime change in Syria, asserting that Assad does not pose a direct threat to the United States.

John Bolton, Trump’s former national security adviser, has also condemned Gabbard's nomination, labeling her foreign policy positions as extreme and questioning her qualifications. He suggested that potential Syrian files on Americans, including Gabbard, could offer revealing insights if uncovered during the ongoing conflict.

Bolton's remarks come amidst significant developments in Syria's civil war. A rebel offensive has reportedly driven Assad from Damascus, with opposition forces gaining control of the capital. Thousands celebrated in Damascus's main square, and the government now retains control of only three provincial capitals. The rapid rebel advances, led by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), mark a major shift in Syria's prolonged conflict. Assad’s whereabouts remain unknown after his reported flight from Damascus.

As Gabbard’s nomination awaits Senate confirmation, her past actions and policy stances are likely to remain a focal point of intense scrutiny.