The Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, Joe Kent, has resigned from his position, citing disagreement with the administration of Donald Trump over the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
Kent disclosed his decision on Tuesday, explaining that he could no longer align himself with the government’s position regarding the war.
In a statement shared via social media, the former intelligence officer questioned the justification for the conflict, insisting that Iran did not present an immediate danger to the United States. He also alleged that the decision to engage in the war was influenced by pressure from Israel and pro-Israel lobbying interests within the United States.
Kent assumed leadership of the National Counterterrorism Center in July after securing confirmation from the US Senate in a 52–44 vote. The agency plays a central role in analysing intelligence and coordinating responses to terrorist threats against the United States.
His resignation is seen as a major development within the administration’s national security structure, coming at a time when debate continues in Washington over the country’s policy toward Iran.
Prior to his appointment, Kent contested two congressional races in Washington but was unsuccessful. He previously served as a Green Beret with multiple overseas deployments and later held intelligence roles at the Central Intelligence Agency.
His nomination had earlier generated sharp divisions in the Senate. Republican lawmakers supported his appointment, pointing to his extensive military and intelligence background, while Democrats expressed reservations about some of his past associations and public views.
During the confirmation process, the chairman of the United States Senate Intelligence Committee, Tom Cotton, defended Kent, stating that he had spent much of his career combating terrorism and safeguarding Americans.
Kent’s exit comes as discussions intensify in Washington over the administration’s approach to the Iran conflict and its broader counterterrorism strategy.
