Joe Kent, director of the National Counterterrorism Center, resigned today after stating he could not in good conscience support the ongoing war in Iran. The resignation marks the first official departure from Donald Trump’s administration to publicly oppose the president’s foreign policy regarding the conflict with Iran.
Kent, who was nominated by President Trump in February 2025 and confirmed by the Senate in July of last year, wrote in his resignation letter: “I cannot in good conscience support the ongoing war in Iran.” He added that until June 2025, the United States had understood that conflicts in the Middle East were a trap that robbed America of the precious lives of its patriots and undermined national wealth and prosperity.
Kent also claimed Iran does not pose an immediate threat to the United States. In his letter, he alleged that American media, senior Israeli officials, and influential Israeli lobbyists launched a disinformation campaign to “sow pro-military sentiments” and push for war with Iran.
President Trump responded by calling Kent “weak on security issues” and stated he was glad the director of counterterrorism had resigned.
Kent’s resignation reflects an emerging rift within Trump’s administration over military action in Iran. Polls show that 77% of Republicans support the strikes, but only 15% disapprove. The move follows a pattern of dissent from figures including journalist Tucker Carlson and former U.S. House member Marjorie Taylor Green.
Kent, a retired Army Green Beret who previously ran for the U.S. House of Representatives without success, is seen as part of a growing faction within Trump’s base that questions the war’s justification.
