Senior Intelligence Official JOE Kent resigns over Iran war policy
I cannot in good conscience support the ongoing war in Iran,” the statement read
WASHINGTON: In a dramatic and unexpected move, the Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) Joe Kent announced their resignation on Tuesday, citing deep ethical concerns over the United States’ ongoing war in Iran.
In a strongly worded statement released earlier today, the outgoing director said the decision came “after much reflection,” adding that they could no longer support the administration’s military actions. The resignation takes immediate effect.
“I cannot in good conscience support the ongoing war in Iran,” the statement read. “Iran posed no imminent threat to our nation, and it is clear that we started this war due to pressure from Israel and its powerful American lobby.”
The remarks mark one of the most direct and public criticisms of U.S. foreign policy from a senior intelligence official in recent years, raising questions about internal dissent within the national security establishment.
Despite the sharp critique, the official expressed gratitude for their time in office, stating it had been “an honor” to serve under the current administration and to lead the professionals at the NCTC. The statement also acknowledged leadership under the President of the United States and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard.
The resignation comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension, as U.S. involvement in the conflict with Iran continues to draw both domestic and international scrutiny. Analysts suggest that such a high-profile departure could signal broader disagreements within government agencies regarding the justification and conduct of the war.
Political leaders and policy experts are expected to react swiftly to the development, with calls likely for greater transparency and congressional oversight into the decision-making process that led to the conflict.
As of now, the White House has not issued an official response to the resignation or the allegations contained in the statement.
The departing director concluded their message with a traditional note of patriotism: “May God bless America.”
