Washington, March 18, 2026 – The Europe Today: The Director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, Joe Kent, has resigned in protest over Washington’s involvement in the ongoing conflict with Iran, stating that Tehran posed no imminent threat to the United States.
Kent stepped down on Tuesday, marking the most senior resignation linked to the conflict within the Trump administration. In a letter published on social media platform X, he said he could not “in good conscience” support the war.
He argued that the decision to engage in the conflict contradicted earlier policy positions and warned against prolonged military involvement in the Middle East. Kent stated that Iran “posed no imminent threat to our nation” and suggested that the escalation was influenced by external pressures, including from Israel and its allies within the United States.
Referring to past US policy, Kent noted that previous commitments had emphasized avoiding extended conflicts in the region. He urged President Donald Trump to reconsider the current approach, writing, “You hold the cards,” and calling for a change in direction.
Kent, who led the agency responsible for analyzing global security threats and advising the administration, reported to Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. His role included briefing the president on risks related to international security and armed groups.
His resignation follows the launch of US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, after which the conflict expanded across the Middle East, with reported incidents in Iran, Israel, Iraq, and Gulf states.
In his letter, Kent questioned the legal basis for the military action, citing the absence of an imminent threat—a condition often referenced under US law for initiating military operations without congressional approval. He also raised concerns regarding compliance with international law.
Kent further criticized what he described as a broader campaign shaping public perception of the conflict, arguing that claims about an immediate threat from Iran had been overstated.
Drawing on his background as a former US Special Forces soldier and CIA paramilitary officer, Kent warned against repeating the mistakes of previous conflicts in the region. He also referenced personal loss, noting that his wife, Shannon Kent, was killed in a 2019 attack in Syria, which he linked to earlier regional conflicts.
The resignation comes amid escalating violence, with casualties reported across multiple countries involved in the conflict. According to compiled figures cited by media reports, at least 13 US soldiers have been killed, while more than 1,400 people have died in Iran, along with additional casualties in Israel and Gulf states.
Kent’s departure adds to growing debate within US political circles, including among figures aligned with the administration’s broader platform, regarding the country’s role in foreign conflicts.
The White House and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence have not yet issued official statements in response to his resignation.
