US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard issued a stark warning on Tuesday after her visit to Hiroshima, stating that “warmongers” are pushing the world dangerously close to nuclear conflict. Her remarks come amid heightened tensions regarding Russia’s aggressive stance and President Vladimir Putin’s repeated threats of nuclear warfare, particularly in light of the ongoing support for Ukraine from Western powers.
Gabbard’s comments were underscored by a reflective video she shared, featuring haunting images from the aftermath of the Hiroshima attack, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 140,000 people due to the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945. A mere three days later, a second bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, claiming around 74,000 more lives by the end of that year. As Gabbard pointed out, today’s nuclear weapons are significantly more destructive than those used in World War II, with the potential to kill millions instantly.
“This one bomb that caused so much destruction in Hiroshima was tiny compared to today’s nuclear bombs,” she remarked, emphasizing the gravity of the current geopolitical climate, which she believes has never been so precarious. Gabbard decried the actions of “political elites and warmongers” who, in her view, are irresponsibly sowing fear and escalating tensions between nuclear powers, confident in their own safety while regular citizens remain vulnerable.
Her comments directly challenge the sentiments expressed by some officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who recently conveyed frustration over Russia’s reluctance to engage in constructive diplomacy regarding the Ukraine conflict.
Gabbard’s visit to Hiroshima coincides with the upcoming 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings, a historic event that the United States has not formally acknowledged with an apology. Gabbard’s advocacy for diplomacy reflects a growing sentiment among many who believe that open dialogue is essential to avert catastrophe.
Such efforts to promote peace resonate strongly, especially in these uncertain times where the threat of nuclear warfare looms large. Gabbard’s emphasis on public activism for diplomacy could inspire a renewed movement towards maintaining global peace and stability.