Joseph Kent, head of the U.S. National Counterterrorism Center, resigned on Tuesday (17 March), becoming the most senior official in President Donald Trump’s administration to step down over the war in Iran. Kent cited his opposition to the conflict, stating that Tehran posed no imminent threat.
In a letter to Trump posted on X, Kent wrote: “I cannot in good conscience support the ongoing war in Iran. Iran posed no imminent threat to our nation and it is clear that we entered this war due to pressure from Israel and its powerful lobby.”
Experts have noted that, under current U.S. law, a war may only be justified if an imminent threat exists, making Kent’s objections legally significant.
The White House and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Intelligence officials said they were surprised by the announcement.
Kent is known to be close to Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, who has maintained a low profile since the conflict in Iran began. She has appeared publicly only for the dignified transfer of U.S. soldiers killed earlier this month.
Kent’s resignation marks a notable moment in the Trump administration, highlighting internal dissent over the justification for U.S. military action in Iran.
President Donald Trump said on Sunday Iran could telephone if it want...
U.S. President Donald Trump has described the man accused of attempting an attack at a high-profile Washington gala at the weekend as ...
Oil prices extended gains on Monday, rising nearly 2% as peace talks between the U.S. and Iran stalled...
U.S. President Donald Trump has said Iran can contact the United States directly if it wishes to negotiate an end to the conflict betw...
King Charles' state visit to the U.S. will go ahead as planned on Monday despite a shooting at a White Hous...
U.S. President Donald Trump has described the man accused of attempting an attack at a high-profile Washington gala at the weekend as a “pretty sick guy”, saying relatives had previously alerted authorities to his behaviour.
Oil prices extended gains on Monday, rising nearly 2% as peace talks between the U.S. and Iran stalled while shipments through the Strait of Hormuz remained limited, keeping global oil supplies tight.
U.S. President Donald Trump has said Iran can contact the United States directly if it wishes to negotiate an end to the conflict between the two countries, now in its second month.
King Charles' state visit to the U.S. will go ahead as planned on Monday despite a shooting at a White House dinner attended by President Donald Trump, Buckingham Palace said after discussions with U.S. officials.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is in Azerbaijan for talks with President Ilham Aliyev, holding meetings in Gabala on Saturday (25 April) during a working visit to the country.
China’s growing use of electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles took centre stage at the Beijing Auto Show 2026, which opened on 24 April, highlighting the country’s expanding clean transport ambitions.
U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were rushed out of the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner by Secret Service agents after a 31 year old suspect attempted to storm event.
Militants have staged coordinated attacks in Mali’s capital, Bamako, and several locations across the country, the army said on Saturday (25 April), in an assault apparently involving jihadist and Tuareg-led groups.
More than 1,000 firefighters are battling to contain two major wildfires in northern Japan for a fourth consecutive day, as flames advance towards residential areas and force thousands to flee.
Loyalists of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas won most municipal races, election officials said on Sunday (26 April). Reuters reported that elections were held for the first time in nearly two decades in the central Gaza city of Deir al‑Balah, which is governed by Hamas.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is in Azerbaijan for talks with President Ilham Aliyev, holding meetings in Gabala on Saturday (25 April) during a working visit to the country.
An additional consignment of Russian wheat has been dispatched to Armenia via Azerbaijan transit routes on 24 April, continuing a series of deliveries using regional rail corridors.
France and Armenia are set to strengthen cooperation in defence, technology and the economy during a state visit by President Emmanuel Macron, Armenia’s Deputy Foreign Minister has confirmed.
Around 14% of Central Asia’s population - about 12 million people - are facing food shortages, according to the United Nations. The issue was a central focus at the Regional Environmental Summit in Astana.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment