Kent Resigns as Counterterrorism Director, Citing Iran Concerns

0:00On March 17, Joe Kent, director of the National Counterterrorism Center, stepped down on Tuesday. He cited his inability to support the Trump administration's military action against Iran as the main reason. Kent shared on social media that Iran presented no immediate danger to the United States. He pointed to influence from Israel and its supporters in America as the real driver behind the conflict. Lawmakers confirmed Kent to his role last July in a close 52-44 Senate vote. Democrats raised serious concerns over his past associations with far-right groups and his reluctance to reject certain conspiracy claims. Kent built a long career in counterterrorism, including 11 deployments as a green beret and later work at the CIA. He also ran twice for Congress and Washington State, but came up short both times. Kent's highlighted his deep experience in the field during his confirmation push. His abrupt exit now leaves the key intelligence post-Vacon amid rising tensions overseas.