Former FBI official argues intelligence, uranium stockpiles and stated intent justified preemptive action.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Former FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino on Wednesday rejected claims that Iran did not pose an imminent threat to the United States, arguing that intelligence assessments and Iran’s actions supported the rationale for military strikes.
Speaking during an appearance on Fox News’ Hannity, Bongino responded to criticism from former counterterrorism official Joe Kent, who had publicly questioned whether Iran presented an immediate danger prior to U.S. action.
Bongino said he reviewed the full body of intelligence during his time in government and disputed the characterization that the threat was not imminent. “I saw the entire body of intelligence up until I left. Nobody kept anything from me. I don’t know what he’s talking about,” he said.
He also questioned why other officials had not supported Kent’s position. “Why has no one else from the administration, if his case is legitimate that this was not an imminent threat… backed him up?” Bongino said.
The former official pointed to Iran’s uranium stockpile and public rhetoric as indicators of intent, referencing reports of approximately 440 kilograms of enriched uranium and repeated statements from Iranian leadership hostile to the United States.
Bongino argued that debate over the term “imminent” has led to confusion in public discussion. He compared the situation to a forecasted hurricane, suggesting that even if an event is days away, credible indicators still warrant preparation and response.
“You’ve got 99% of meteorologists telling you it’s going to be a cat five… what do you do? Do you prepare for it?” he said, framing the analogy as a way to interpret intelligence warnings.
He also cited diplomatic efforts made prior to the conflict, stating that Iran had been offered multiple opportunities to alter its course, including proposals related to civilian nuclear development. “They were offered a thousand exits… and they took none of them,” Bongino said.
Bongino emphasized that his comments were not directed by current officials, stating he was speaking independently. “I have no dog in this fight other than the truth,” he said.
The remarks come amid continued debate in Washington over how intelligence assessments should be interpreted in determining the threshold for preemptive military action.
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