By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Director of the United States National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), Joseph Kent, has resigned from his position, citing strong opposition to the ongoing war in Iran.
In a resignation letter addressed to President Donald Trump, Kent said his decision followed “much reflection,” adding that he could no longer support the administration’s military action in Iran.
He stated that Iran posed “no imminent threat” to the United States and alleged that the conflict was influenced by pressure from Israel and its allies in the U.S.
Kent, who served as Director of the NCTC, criticized what he described as a misinformation campaign by “high-ranking Israeli officials and influential members of the American media,” which he claimed pushed the U.S. toward war under false pretenses.
According to him, the narrative that Iran posed an immediate danger was misleading and echoed the rationale that led to the Iraq War.
Reflecting on past U.S. foreign policy, Kent expressed support for Trump’s earlier stance against prolonged Middle East conflicts, noting that such wars have historically cost American lives and resources without clear benefits.
He pointed to previous military actions, including the fight against ISIS, as examples of more decisive and limited engagements.
In an emotional section of the letter, Kent referenced his personal sacrifices as a combat veteran and Gold Star husband, revealing that his wife died in a war he described as “manufactured.”
He said this experience shaped his refusal to support sending another generation of Americans into what he believes is an unnecessary conflict.
“I cannot support sending the next generation off to fight and die in a war that serves no benefit to the American people,” he wrote.
Kent urged the president to reconsider the current course of action, warning that the United States risks further decline and instability if it continues on its present path.
He concluded by saying it had been an honor to serve in the administration and the country.
His resignation marks a significant development within the national security establishment, highlighting internal dissent over U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.
