US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard announced her resignation on Friday, ending the tenure of a long-term contrarian who appeared to be at odds with President Donald Trump over the Iran war.

Gabbard said in a letter to Trump posted on X that she was quitting as Director of National Intelligence to care for her husband after he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.

A source familiar with the matter told Reuters that Gabbard had been forced out by the White House. Davis Ingle, a White House spokesperson, said on X that Gabbard was stepping aside in light of her husband’s diagnosis.

“Unfortunately, I must submit my resignation, effective June 30,” Gabbard, whose job involved coordinating the global security information brought to Trump, wrote in the letter.

“My husband, Abraham, has recently been diagnosed with an extremely rare form of bone cancer. He faces major challenges in the coming weeks and months,” added the 45-year-old.

“At this time, I must step away from public service to be by his side and fully support him through this battle.”

Trump hailed Gabbard — one of the few women left in the Republican’s cabinet — following the announcement.

“Tulsi has done an incredible job, and we will miss her,” Trump said on his Truth Social network, adding that she “rightfully” wanted to help her husband with his cancer battle.

Her deputy Aaron Lukas will serve as acting Director of National Intelligence, the president added.

A........

© The Times of Israel