Story perspectives

Blair Urges Obama on Iran; Biden Advised Against 2016 Run

3/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Dennis Blair, former Director of National Intelligence, pressed U.S. President Barack Obama on tolerating a nuclear-armed Iran during a 2009–2010 meeting, prompting a stern warning.
The exchange underscored divisions within the Obama administration on Iran policy.
Blair later described the meeting as a misjudgment of Obama's openness to insights.
David Plouffe advised Joe Biden not to run for president in 2016, citing concerns for his well-being after his son's death.

1 of 1

Story summary

Dennis Blair, former Director of National Intelligence, pressed U.S. President Barack Obama on tolerating a nuclear-armed Iran during a 2009–2010 meeting, prompting a stern warning.
The exchange underscored divisions within the Obama administration on Iran policy.
Blair later described the meeting as a misjudgment of Obama's openness to insights.
David Plouffe advised Joe Biden not to run for president in 2016, citing concerns for his well-being after his son's death.