‘I cannot in good conscience support the ongoing war in Iran,’ says Joseph Kent
National Counterterrorism Center Director Joseph Kent. Photo: Reuters
The head of the United States National Counterterrorism Centre resigned on Tuesday, becoming the first and most senior member of President Donald Trump’s administration to resign over the war in Iran, saying Tehran posed no imminent threat to the US.
“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 US 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.
