Washington DC, Jan. 30 -- Tulsi Gabbard, US President Donald Trump's pick for Director of National Intelligence, exuded confidence that she she will bring "laser-like focus" back into the intelligence leadership.

During the confirmation hearing before the Senate Intelligence Committee on Thursday, Gabbard also criticised the previous Biden administration citing examples of how intelligence was "weaponised and politicised".

She opened her speech by expressing condolences and prayers over the air crash.

"I'm honoured and grateful to President Trump for his trust and confidence in nominating me to serve our country as Director of National Intelligence, at a time when trust in the intelligence community is unfortunately at an all-time low,...