Donald Trump’s chief counterterrorism official resigned today, delivering a scathing critique of the President’s military actions in Iran.
Joe Kent, the head of the National Counterterrorism Centre, announced his departure citing moral objections to supporting the administration’s Middle East conflict, arguing that Iran did not pose an immediate threat to the United States.
In a social media statement, Kent suggested that the war was initiated under influence from Israel and its strong American advocacy.
His resignation is viewed as a fissure within Trump’s loyal base, as several prominent conservative figures have openly condemned the airstrikes on Iran.
Despite facing scrutiny for his ties to right-wing extremist groups, including the Proud Boys founder, Kent, a former CIA and military officer, was appointed to his role last July to oversee the identification and monitoring of terrorist risks to the nation.
Prior to joining the administration, Kent, who lost his wife Shannon – a US Navy officer killed in a 2019 Syria bombing, ran unsuccessful congressional campaigns in Washington state.
During his confirmation hearing, Kent faced criticism for not disavowing conspiracy theories about the Capitol attack on January 6, 2021, and false assertions regarding the 2020 election outcome between Trump and Joe Biden.
Democrats questioned Kent about his involvement in a Signal group chat used by Trump’s security team for discussing sensitive military strategies.
However, Republicans lauded Kent’s expertise in counterterrorism, highlighting his extensive background in military and intelligence operations.
Senator Tom Cotton, chair of the intelligence committee, commended Kent’s dedication to combating terrorism and safeguarding the American populace.
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