U.S. Fires DIA Director After Iran Strike Report Leak
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has dismissed Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Kruse from his position as Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). The Pentagon cited a “loss of confidence” in Kruse’s leadership. His deputy, Christine Bordine, has been appointed Acting Director until a permanent replacement is named.
Dispute Over Iran Strike Assessment
Kruse’s removal follows controversy surrounding a leaked DIA assessment of U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The agency’s report indicated that the strikes had only set back Iran’s nuclear program by months. This contradicted President Donald Trump’s public claim that the strikes had completely eliminated Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
Political Reactions and Criticism
The firing drew immediate criticism from lawmakers. Senator Mark Warner, Vice Chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, described the decision as politically motivated. He warned that removing senior intelligence officials for delivering fact-based analysis undermines U.S. national security and risks turning intelligence services into tools of political loyalty.
Pattern of Security Purges
Kruse’s dismissal adds to a broader shake-up across the military and intelligence establishment. Earlier this year, the heads of the National Security Agency and other senior officials were also removed under similar circumstances. Analysts say these moves point to a trend of prioritizing political alignment over independent assessments.
Uncertainty Going Forward
While the Pentagon has not provided further explanation, Kruse’s firing is expected to spark deeper debate over the independence of U.S. intelligence agencies. Observers warn that such actions could discourage objective reporting within the intelligence community at a time of escalating global tensions.
