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Counterterrorism Director Resigns, Criticizes War on Iran

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Joe Kent, the director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), resigned on March 17, 2026.
He cited opposition to the war against Iran as the reason for his resignation.
He said Iran does not pose a national security threat to the United States.
He criticized the war as influenced by Israel and its American lobby.
Kent urged U.S. President Donald Trump to reconsider U.S. actions in Iran.

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Story summary

Joe Kent, the director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), resigned on March 17, 2026.
He cited opposition to the war against Iran as the reason for his resignation.
He said Iran does not pose a national security threat to the United States.
He criticized the war as influenced by Israel and its American lobby.
Kent urged U.S. President Donald Trump to reconsider U.S. actions in Iran.