Top counterterrorism official Kent resigns over Trump’s Iran war, says Iran posed no imminent threat

Associated Press (AP)CenterEN 4 min read 100% complete by By SEUNG MIN KIM and DAVID KLEPPERMarch 17, 2026 at 03:23 PM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Joe Kent, Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, resigned, citing concerns about the Trump administration's war with Iran. Kent stated that Iran posed no imminent threat to the U.S. and that the war was initiated due to pressure from Israel. Kent, who was confirmed in July, headed the agency responsible for analyzing and detecting terrorist threats. His resignation highlights unease within Trump's base regarding the war and questions about the justification for using force against Iran. The resignation comes amid heightened concerns about terrorism following recent attacks in Michigan and Virginia. Trump has offered varying reasons for the strikes and denied claims that Israel influenced the U.S. decision.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Mike Johnson 30% White House 40% Washington 40% Israel ×260% National Counterterrorism Center ×370% United States ×270% Iran ×480% Donald Trump ×480% Joe Kent ×490%

Keywords

joe kent 90% iran war 90% counterterrorism 80% donald trump 80% imminent threat 70% resignation 70% national counterterrorism center 70% military strikes 60% israel 50% terrorism 50%