Gabbard and Ratcliffe questioned about briefing Trump about Strait of Hormuz closure

CBS News
March 18, 2026
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3 min read

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The Bottom Line

Sen. Kelly questioned intelligence officials about Trump briefings on Iran's potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route.

How This Affects You

An Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz could disrupt one-third of global seaborne oil, driving gasoline prices and heating costs sharply higher for American consumers.

AI Summary

Sen. Mark Kelly questioned Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and CIA Director John Ratcliffe about their briefings to President Trump regarding a potential Iranian closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint through which roughly one-third of global seaborne oil passes, making any disruption a matter of significant geopolitical and economic consequence. Kelly's questioning suggests congressional oversight of how intelligence agencies are informing the president on Iranian threats and U.S. strategic vulnerabilities in the region. The exchange reflects broader Senate concerns about Iran policy and the intelligence community's assessment of Tehran's capabilities and intentions.

What's Being Done

Sen. Mark Kelly is conducting congressional oversight questioning of Director of National Intelligence Gabbard and CIA Director Ratcliffe on their briefings to Trump.

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