Trump’s Counterterrorism Chief Quits Over Iran War Dispute

Trump’s Counterterrorism Chief Quits Over Iran War Dispute

The Director of the U.S. National Counterterrorism Center, Joe Kent, has stepped down from his position, citing strong opposition to the ongoing war with Iran under President Donald Trump.

Kent announced his resignation on Tuesday, saying he could no longer align with the administration’s approach to the conflict.

“I cannot in good conscience back this war,” he said, signalling a major rift within the administration’s national security leadership.

In a statement shared on social media, the outgoing counterterrorism chief questioned the basis for the military action, insisting that Iran did not pose an immediate threat to the United States.

“Iran posed no imminent threat to our nation, and it is clear that we started this war due to pressure from Israel and its powerful American lobby,” Kent stated.

Kent, who assumed office in July following a narrow Senate confirmation, led the National Counterterrorism Center, the agency tasked with analysing and coordinating responses to terrorist threats against the U.S.

His exit is seen as a significant development amid mounting debate in Washington over the administration’s Iran policy and broader counterterrorism strategy.

Before his appointment, Kent, a former Green Beret with multiple overseas deployments, had unsuccessfully contested two congressional elections in Washington state. He also previously served in intelligence roles at the Central Intelligence Agency.

His confirmation had sparked partisan divisions in the Senate, with Republicans backing his nomination based on his military and intelligence experience, while Democrats raised concerns over his past affiliations and views.

Defending his appointment at the time, Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Tom Cotton said Kent had “dedicated his career to fighting terrorism and keeping Americans safe.”

Kent’s resignation comes as discussions intensify over the direction of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, particularly the handling of tensions involving Iran.