Ex-Counterterrorism Chief Resigns, Alleges Israeli Pressure Fueled Iran War
Joe Kent resigned as National Counterterrorism Center director saying Iran posed no imminent threat and alleging Israeli pressure; the FBI has opened a months-long leak investigation into him.
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Overview
Joe Kent resigned Tuesday as director of the National Counterterrorism Center, saying in a resignation letter that Iran posed no imminent threat and that the war began due to pressure from Israel and its American lobby.
The FBI has opened a leak investigation into Kent focused on allegations he improperly disclosed classified information, and sources said the probe predates his departure and was months-long.
President Trump and administration allies sought to discredit Kent, with Trump calling him "weak on security," while Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard said it was up to Trump to decide whether Iran posed a threat.
Kent, 45, is a retired Green Beret who was confirmed in July on a 52-44 Senate vote, led the National Counterterrorism Center and became the first senior Trump administration official to resign over the war.
Kent told a conservative television host that he and other senior officials "were not allowed" to brief the president, and the FBI and the White House declined to comment as the leak probe continues.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources present this story neutrally: they foreground factual developments (an FBI leak probe, a resignation) and rely on source content—Kent's resignation quotes and reactions from Trump aides—rather than loaded editorial language. reporting balances allegations and responses, uses neutral verbs, and cites timelines and denials rather than asserting a narrative.
FAQ
Joe Kent resigned as Director of the National Counterterrorism Center because he could not support the ongoing war in Iran, stating that Iran posed no imminent threat to the U.S. and that the conflict was initiated due to pressure from Israel and its American lobby.
Joe Kent is a 45-year-old retired Green Beret, Army Special Forces veteran, and former CIA paramilitary officer. He unsuccessfully ran for Congress twice as a Republican and was confirmed by the Senate 52-44 in July 2025 to lead the National Counterterrorism Center.
President Trump called Kent 'a nice guy' but 'weak on security.' White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt rejected his claims as false, asserting the Commander-in-Chief determines threats. Allies like Taylor Budowich labeled him a 'razedomani' seeking attention.
The FBI has opened a months-long leak investigation into Kent for allegedly improperly disclosing classified information, with the probe predating his resignation.
House Speaker Mike Johnson stated Iran posed an imminent threat due to near nuclear enrichment and rapid missile production, based on Gang of Eight briefings. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said preemptive strikes were needed after Israel's decision to avoid retaliation against U.S. troops.