The Director of the United States National Counterterrorism Center, Joe Kent, has stepped down from his role, citing deep disagreement with the prosecution of the Iran war under President Donald Trump.
Kent disclosed his decision on Tuesday, explaining that he could no longer support the administration’s position on the escalating conflict.
In remarks posted on social media, he challenged the rationale behind the military engagement, insisting that Iran did not present any immediate threat to the United States.
According to him, the decision to go to war appeared to have been driven by external influences, including pressure linked to Israel and its allies in the US.
Kent assumed leadership of the National Counterterrorism Center in July after securing Senate confirmation by a 52–44 vote.
The agency plays a central role in coordinating intelligence and assessing terrorist threats facing the country.
His resignation is regarded as a significant development within the administration’s security architecture, especially amid intensifying scrutiny of Washington’s Iran policy.
Before his appointment, Kent made unsuccessful bids for congressional seats in Washington State.
He previously served as a Green Beret with multiple overseas deployments and later held intelligence positions at the Central Intelligence Agency.
His nomination had triggered partisan divisions in the Senate, with Republican lawmakers endorsing him based on his military and intelligence background, while Democrats voiced concerns over his past associations and views.
Speaking during his confirmation, Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Tom Cotton praised Kent’s track record, stating that he had committed his career to counterterrorism efforts and the protection of American lives.
Kent’s departure comes as debates persist in Washington over the administration’s management of the Iran crisis and its broader counterterrorism strategy.