GOP lawmakers investigate adviser for ties to Iran

Congressional Republicans are scrutinizing Kamala Harris' national security adviser, Richard Gordon, for allegedly promoting Iranian interests and maintaining connections to an Iranian influence operation. Representatives Elise Stefanik (R-NY) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) have raised concerns about Gordon's ties to Ariane Tabatabai, a former State Department official linked to the Iran Experts Initiative, which reportedly coordinated with Iranian officials during negotiations on the Iran nuclear deal. Stefanik has been vocal about the need for accountability within the Department of Defense, claiming that Iranian regime supporters have infiltrated high-level government positions. The lawmakers highlighted Gordon's past writings with Tabatabai, which they argue reflect a biased perspective favoring Tehran, including predictions that sanctions would lead to regional catastrophe and increased aggression from Iran. They also noted Gordon's association with the National Iranian American Council (NIAC), an organization accused of collaborating with the Iranian government. The investigation comes amid ongoing inquiries by the FBI and the State Department's Office of Inspector General into Robert Malley, the former Iran envoy, who was suspended for allegedly leaking classified information. As Gordon is expected to play a significant role in Harris' administration, Stefanik and Cotton are pressing for clarity on his security clearance and the nature of his relationship with Tabatabai, particularly following revelations about her connections to the Iranian Foreign Ministry. The lawmakers have demanded answers by August 9 regarding Gordon's background and whether Harris was aware of his associations when he was hired. They are also questioning the vice president's stance on Tabatabai's continued employment at the Department of Defense, emphasizing the need for transparency in national security matters.