FBI Investigates Former Counterterrorism Chief Over Alleged Leak Amid Iran War Dispute
Washington D.C. – The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is conducting a leak investigation into Joe Kent, the former director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), who resigned last week in protest against the Biden administration’s policy toward Iran. The investigation reportedly began before Kent publicly announced his resignation on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
Resignation and Allegations of Leaks
Kent resigned from his position, submitting a letter to President Donald Trump expressing his inability to support the ongoing military actions in Iran. He stated his belief that Iran did not pose an “imminent threat” to the United States, contradicting the administration’s justification for the strikes as reported by NBC News.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the FBI investigation centers on the alleged leaking of classified information. The New York Times and The Hill both reported on the investigation, citing anonymous sources.
Kent’s Background and Administration Response
Kent, a former Green Beret and longtime Trump ally, was appointed by the former president to lead the NCTC, reporting to Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. He oversaw the analysis of terrorist threats and served as a key counter-terrorism advisor. NBC News detailed his role within the administration.
President Trump responded to Kent’s resignation by accusing him of being “very weak on security” and stating it was “a fine situation that he’s out.” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed Kent’s claims regarding the motivations behind the war with Iran, calling them “insulting and ludicrous.” Leavitt affirmed the President’s stance that there was “strong and convincing evidence” of an impending Iranian attack on the United States. As reported by NBC News.
Kent’s Public Statements
In his first interview since resigning, Kent stated he anticipated attempts to discredit him for his public opposition to the war. He expressed willingness to speak directly with President Trump, believing the president would listen to his concerns. NBC News covered his interview with Tucker Carlson.
Speaking on The Tucker Carlson Indicate podcast, Kent claimed that dissenting voices were excluded from the decision-making process leading to the U.S. Airstrikes on Iran on February 28th. He asserted that there wasn’t a “robust debate” before the military action was taken. The Guardian provided details of this interview.
FBI’s Stance
The FBI has declined to comment on the ongoing investigation. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence has not yet responded to requests for comment. NBC News reported on the lack of official statements from these agencies.