Counterterrorism Official Resigns, Citing Iran War

Joe Kent resigned as director of the National Counterterrorism Center, becoming the first senior member of the administration to publicly oppose the war in Iran. Kent stated he “cannot in good conscience” support the conflict, asserting Iran “posed no imminent threat to our nation.” He believes the war began due to pressure from Israel and its American lobby. Kent, confirmed to the post last July, previously ran unsuccessful congressional campaigns and served in the military with 11 deployments as a Green Beret, followed by work at the CIA. He advised President Trump and the Director of National Intelligence on counterterrorism threats. His resignation letter, posted on X, sparked surprise among intelligence officials. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, a close associate of Kent, has maintained a low profile since the war began, issuing no public statements. This marks the first public dissent within the administration regarding the conflict.