Joseph Kent, head of the U.S. National Counterterrorism Center, resigned on Tuesday, becoming the highest-ranking official in President Donald Trump’s administration to step down over the war in Iran.
In a letter to Trump posted on X, Kent stated that he could not support the ongoing conflict, insisting that Iran posed no imminent threat to the United States and claiming the war was initiated due to pressure from Israel and its influential lobby.
Some experts have said an imminent threat would be required for the United States to launch a war under current law.
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 did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence also did not immediately respond.
Intelligence officials were caught off guard by the news.
Kent is close with Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, who has kept a low profile since the Iran war began.
Gabbard has not issued any public statements and has only appeared in public during the dignified transfer of American soldiers killed earlier this month during the conflict with Iran.
(With Reuters Inputs)
Sofia Babu Chacko is a journalist with over five years of experience reporting on Indian politics, crime, human rights, gender issues, and stories about marginalized communities. She believes journalism plays a crucial role in amplifying unheard voices and bringing attention to issues that truly matter. Sofia has contributed articles to The New Indian Express, Youth Ki Awaaz, and Maktoob Media. She is also a recipient of the 2025 Laadli Media Awards for gender sensitivity. Beyond the newsroom, she is a music enthusiast who enjoys singing. Connect with Sofia on X: https://x.com/SBCism
