Joseph Kent, Director of the National Counterterrorism Center of United States of America, announced his resignation in a statement posted to his verified X account, citing opposition to what he described as an ongoing U.S. war with Iran.
In the statement addressed to Donald Trump, Kent said he could not “in good conscience” support the conflict, asserting that Iran posed “no imminent threat” to the United States.
He claimed the war was initiated due to pressure from Israel and its powerful lobby within the United States, and claimed that a misinformation campaign contributed to pushing the U.S. into military action. Kent warned that the situation mirrors the lead-up to the Iraq War and cautioned against repeating similar mistakes.
Kent cited his military service and personal loss in explaining his decision, stating he could not support sending more Americans into a war he believes does not serve U.S. national interests.