Bulwark Takes Ex–Trump Intel Official Sounds Alarm on Iran (w/ Sue Gordon)
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Mar 31, 2026 
Sue Gordon, a former Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence with decades at the CIA, breaks down the fast-moving Iran crisis. She discusses intelligence gaps and how U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA shaped Tehran’s behavior. She explains likely Iranian responses to strikes, alliance strains, and why bombing is easier than managing what follows.
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Role Of The Principal Deputy DNI
- Sue Gordon frames the Principal Deputy DNI as the career intelligence officer who bridges tradecraft and policy in decision rooms.
- Her 30 years at CIA and stints at NGA gave her credibility on alliances, collection, and operational tradeoffs.
JCPOA Constrained Nuclear Work But Not Proxies
- Gordon says the JCPOA had effectively constrained Iran's weaponization while sanctions money was diverted to regional proxy activity.
- She ties the Trump administration withdrawal to increased Iranian saber-rattling and proxy attacks culminating before Soleimani's killing.
Iran Is A Patient Regional Power
- Gordon stresses Iran is a patient, region-focused adversary unlikely to be surprised into submission by force.
- She warns regime change is the only likely decisive outcome but would require meticulous planning beyond brute force.