Former US Counterterrorism Director Resigns Amid Controversy Over Iran

March 17, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Former US Counterterrorism Director Resigns Amid Controversy Over Iran

US President Donald Trump has commented on the resignation of Joe Kent, the director of the US National Counterterrorism Centre. According to reports, Kent tendered his resignation.

Trump stated that he could not work with someone who did not consider Iran a threat. He also mentioned that his decision to bomb Iran was made in order to avoid a potential nuclear conflict.

It is reported that Kent’s resignation has been linked to disagreements over the US government’s approach to counterterrorism, particularly regarding Iran.

Kent had previously expressed concerns about the Trump administration’s policies on Iran, including its decision to withdraw from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and impose new sanctions.

Source: Al Jazeera