Iran briefing reveals GOP confidence and Democratic skepticism over nuclear setback

Published June 26, 2025 7:13pm ET



Senators emerged from their first classified briefing on President Donald Trump’s decision to strike three Iranian nuclear sites, with Republicans calling the operation a success and Democrats expressing doubt following Thursday’s closed-door session.

CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan “Razin” Caine briefed senators Thursday, after the session was pushed back from its original Tuesday schedule. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard was expected at the earlier meeting but did not attend the rescheduled briefing.

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