Joe Kent Resigns Over Iran War, Triggering Backlash Among Trump Supporters

Joe Kent resigned from the National Counterterrorism Center, opposing the ongoing conflict in Iran. His statement criticized media and lobbyists for promoting war sentiments. Photo: Reuters

The head of the U.S. National Counterterrorism Center, Joe Kent, has resigned in protest over the ongoing conflict with Iran, triggering sharp divisions within political circles and among supporters of President Donald Trump.

Kent announced his resignation in a letter published Tuesday, saying he could not «in good conscience» support the war. He argued that Iran did not pose an imminent threat to the United States and warned that the country risked repeating past military mistakes in the Middle East.
Appointed by Trump in early 2025, Kent had been a close political ally of the president, making his departure a notable break within the administration amid escalating tensions with Tehran.

Backlash from Trump allies
Kent’s resignation drew immediate criticism from Republican figures and pro-Trump commentators, some of whom labeled his exit «disgraceful.»
Republican Congressman Don Bacon said «good riddance,» while other political figures accused Kent of undermining leadership and attempting to make a political statement ahead of a potential dismissal.
At the same time, some supporters praised Kent as a principled critic of prolonged military engagement, pointing to his military background and previous opposition to U.S. interventions abroad.

Wider implications for U.S. policy
The resignation has also renewed attention on divisions within the administration over foreign policy, including the role of Tulsi Gabbard, who has previously voiced opposition to Middle East interventions.
Kent’s departure comes as the Trump administration continues to push a hardline stance on Iran, including recent military actions targeting nuclear facilities.

Bottom line
Joe Kent’s resignation highlights growing internal disagreements over U.S. strategy in Iran, exposing fractures within the administration and among its political base as tensions escalate.

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