US National Counterterrorism Center director resigns over war in Iran

2026-03-17 - 14:40

WASHINGTON: The head ​of the National Counterterrorism Center resigned on Tuesday, becoming ‌the first and most senior member of U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration to resign over the war in Iran, saying Tehran ​posed no imminent threat to the United States. “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 ​war due to pressure from Israel and its powerful lobby,” Joseph Kent wrote in a letter to Trump posted on X. 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 Some ​experts have said an imminent threat would be required ​for the United States to launch a war under current law. ‌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. Iran War 2026- Live Updates