Which entity does the National Security Council advise?

The National Security Council (NSC) serves as the principal forum used by the President of the United States for considering national security and foreign policy matters with senior national security advisors and cabinet officials. It is directly designed to advise the President on critical issues related to national security and to assist in coordinating policies across different government agencies.

The NSC ensures that the President has the necessary information and advice on how to respond to various security challenges, making its primary advisory role directly related to the President. This relationship is vital for effective governance as it integrates inputs from various sources, including intelligence, defense, and foreign diplomacy.

The other entities listed, such as the Director of National Intelligence, Congress, and the Secretary of Homeland Security, do have significant roles in national security but do so in their respective capacities and are not the primary recipients of the NSC's advisory output. For instance, while the Director of National Intelligence relies on the NSC for policy guidance, it is the President who is ultimately advised and makes the final decisions based on the council's recommendations.