FBI investigating counter-terrorism chief who resigned over Iran war, report says

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WASHINGTON: Federal authorities have launched an investigation into Joe Kent, the former head of the National Counterterrorism Center, following his high-profile resignation this week in protest of the war in Iran. According to a report on Wednesday, the FBI is currently looking into the former official’s conduct regarding the handling of sensitive government data.

The investigation into the former counter-terrorism chief is centered on allegations that he improperly shared classified information. While the probe has come to light following his departure, sources familiar with the matter indicate that the inquiry actually predates his resignation, with one source claiming the file was opened several months ago.

Mr. Kent, who led the nation’s primary counter-terrorism hub, stepped down after opposing the military campaign. In a publicly released resignation letter on X/Twitter, he argued that Iran posed no imminent threat to the United States and claimed he could not "in good conscience" support the war. He further alleged that President Donald Trump had been misled by Israeli intelligence and other outside influences within America.

In the wake of his departure, Trump administration aides and allies have moved quickly to denounce Mr. Kent, labeling him a "leaker" as the legal investigation continues. The investigation reflects internal disagreements within the intelligence community over the strategic rationale for the current military operations in the region.

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