Washington, March 18 (NationPress) Iran is currently pursuing intelligence collaboration with adversaries of the United States, as revealed by CIA Director John Ratcliffe during a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing on global threats. This marks a notable shift in Tehran's approach as it seeks external strategic support.

“The Iranians are seeking intelligence assistance from Russia, China, and other nations opposed to the US. Whether those nations are providing such assistance is a topic for classified discussions,” Ratcliffe stated while addressing lawmakers about the evolving nature of the Iran conflict and the potential for wider geopolitical entanglements involving major powers.

Ratcliffe emphasized that Iran remains a persistent and immediate threat, dismissing any claims that Tehran has reduced its ambitions. “Senator, no. In fact, the intelligence indicates the opposite,” he responded to inquiries about whether Iran had halted its nuclear or missile initiatives.

He also raised alarms regarding Iran's missile program, cautioning that advancements in technology could eventually enable missiles to reach the continental United States. Tehran is reportedly gaining expertise in more powerful booster technologies through its space launch vehicle program.

“If not restricted, yes, Senator, they would have the capability to target missiles at the continental US,” he asserted, noting that undermining Iran's missile production capabilities through Operation Epic Fury is crucial for national security.

Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence, echoed these concerns, stating that the intelligence community has been consistently monitoring the threats posed by Iran and has kept policymakers informed with ongoing assessments.

“The intelligence community has always taken the threats from the Iranian regime's missile capabilities very seriously, especially regarding the safety of American troops in the region,” she remarked.

Gabbard highlighted longstanding intelligence assessments regarding Iran's ability to disrupt global energy supplies. “Historically, the Iranians have threatened to leverage their control over the Strait of Hormuz,” she added.

Ratcliffe revealed that Iran has also devised plans to target US-affiliated interests in the region, stating, “Iran had specific plans to strike US interests in energy sectors across the region,” and that precautions for “force protection and personnel safety” were implemented prior to Operation Epic Fury.

The discussions underscored increasing concerns among lawmakers that the conflict could escalate, particularly if Iran strengthens its coordination with nations like Russia and China. Despite this, intelligence officials asserted that the United States had anticipated key aspects of Iran's actions.

Gabbard confirmed that the intelligence community has “continued to evaluate potential threats and existing risks in the region, providing assessments to policymakers and decision-makers.”

In response to inquiries, Ratcliffe reiterated that Iran has long posed a consistent threat to the United States and remains an immediate concern, underlining the stakes for US national security as developments unfold.