Counterterrorism Director Joe Kent resigns over Iran war

A major fracture has appeared within the highest levels of the U.S. intelligence community. Joe Kent, the Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), has resigned in protest of the ongoing conflict with Iran. Kent, whose position is considered one of the top five intelligence posts in the nation, delivered a blistering resignation letter to President Trump today, Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Kent’s departure marks the most significant internal defection since Operation Epic Fury began three weeks ago. Meanwhile, the administration faces bipartisan backlash over FCC Chair Brendan Carr’s warning that local stations could lose their licenses for airing what the agency deems "fake news" about the conflict.