Tulsi Gabbard announced her resignation as the United States Director of National Intelligence on Thursday, citing her husband’s health as the reason for her departure from the nation’s top intelligence post.

Gabbard had been largely absent from public view during recent US military operations, fueling speculation about her capacity to fulfill the role. The resignation confirms that she had effectively stepped back from active intelligence leadership.

As the head of the US intelligence community, the DNI coordinates the work of 18 intelligence agencies including the CIA, NSA, and FBI. Gabbard’s departure will trigger a major personnel shakeup in the intelligence community, particularly during a critical period of heightened tensions in the Middle East.

According to CNN, Gabbard’s decision is directly tied to her husband’s health condition. Her tenure as DNI was marked by several controversial positions, including her stance on Syria policy and Russia-related issues.

The White House will need to nominate a successor who must then be confirmed by the Senate. The timing of the resignation, amid ongoing military operations and geopolitical tensions, raises questions about continuity in US intelligence leadership.