Inside Joe Kent’s abrupt fall as GOP backlash grows over antisemitism accusations, FBI probe

March 19, 2026

TL;DR

Joe Kent resigned as director of the National Counterterrorism Center, citing disagreements over the justification for the Iran war.
Kent alleged that 'pressure from Israel' and a 'misinformation campaign' by Israeli officials and U.S. media pushed the U.S. toward war with Iran.
Following his resignation, it was revealed that Kent has been under FBI investigation for weeks for allegedly leaking classified information.
Kent's claims drew condemnation from lawmakers and senior Republicans, with Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell describing the language as 'virulent anti-Semitism'.
The events expose apparent fractures in President Trump's national security team regarding a more aggressive military posture versus an isolationist approach, particularly concerning Iran strategy.
Kent, a former Green Beret and CIA officer, previously channeled his military experience into a critique of 'endless wars' and aligned himself with the populist wing of the GOP.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt called Kent's claims 'false' and 'laughable'.

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