Trump counterterrorism director Joe Kent resigns over US war in Iranresigns over US war in Iran
Joe Kent, director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, resigned on March 17, 2026, stating he could not support the ongoing war in Iran, which he said posed no imminent threat to the US and was started due to pressure from Israel. The resignation, posted publicly on social media, marks the first high-profile defection in the Trump administration over the conflict now in its third week. It highlights internal divisions within the 'America First' faction as the US faces escalation in the Middle East.
Kent and Critics
Joe Kent argues Iran posed no imminent threat to the US. He blames pressure from Israel and its lobby for starting the war. As a veteran and Gold Star husband, he refuses to support sending Americans to die in what he calls a pointless conflict.
Trump Administration
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt calls Kent's claims false and insulting. President Trump deems him a nice guy but weak on security. Officials assert the commander-in-chief alone judges threats, empowered by voters.
Supporters like Rubio
Secretary of State Marco Rubio says US strikes preempted Iranian retaliation against American troops after Israel's action. Lawmakers warn waiting would cause mass US casualties. Some accuse Kent of anti-Semitic views.
- Joe Kent's late wife Shannon was a Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer killed in Syria.
- The National Counterterrorism Center coordinates US efforts against terrorism and narcotics.
- Kent served as principal counterterrorism adviser to the president.
US-Iran Ceasefire War
The United States launched military strikes against Iran on June 26, 2026, in response to a drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a "foolish violation" of the 60-day ceasefire agreement signed just days earlier[2][4][14].
26 June, 09:35 PM
US launches strikes against Iran following commercial ship attack26 June, 04:47 PM
Trump calls Iran drone attack on cargo ship a ceasefire violation
