Joe Kent resigns over Iran war dispute with Trump

Photo: REUTERS/Elizabeth Frantz, photo editor: Adelina Mamedova

Joe Kent, the director of the U.S. National Counterterrorism Center and a longtime supporter of President Donald Trump, has resigned in protest over the U.S. role in the war with Iran, the BBC reported.

In a letter posted on X, Kent argued that Iran posed no imminent threat to the U.S. and claimed the conflict was initiated under pressure from Israel and its American supporters. He urged the president to change course.

After much reflection, I have decided to resign from my position as Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, effective today.

I cannot in good conscience support the ongoing war in Iran. Iran posed no imminent threat to our nation, and it is clear that we started this… pic.twitter.com/prtu86DpEr
— Joe Kent (@joekent16jan19) March 17, 2026

The White House rejected Kent’s claims, stating that Trump had strong evidence Iran was preparing an attack. Officials also dismissed the suggestion that outside influence shaped the president’s decision. Some organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League, criticized Kent’s remarks, describing them as relying on antisemitic tropes.

A decorated military and CIA veteran, Kent is the most senior official in the administration to publicly oppose the U.S.-Israeli military action. Trump responded by calling him a «nice guy» but «weak on security,» adding that his departure was ultimately beneficial.

Reactions to his resignation were divided. Some Republican figures condemned his stance, while others defended him and praised his service.