Top intelligence official resigns over Iran policy, but a quiet FBI probe was already underway

Joe Kent, the former director of the National Counterterrorism Center, is facing an FBI investigation for allegedly leaking classified information, a development that surfaced shortly after his resignation. Reports indicate the probe was already underway before Kent stepped down on Tuesday, when he publicly cited his opposition to the U.S. war with Iran.

As reported by The Hill, Kent, who served as a top aide to Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, had argued that Iran did not pose an imminent threat to the United States. He also urged President Donald Trump to reconsider the administration’s approach to the conflict, putting him at odds with senior officials.

His stance drew sharp criticism from the White House. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt called his comments “insulting and laughable,” while Trump said Kent was “weak on security” and that his remarks reinforced the view that his departure was warranted.

The investigation adds new weight to his resignation

Kent continued to defend his position publicly after stepping down. In an interview with Tucker Carlson, he claimed that Israel played a decisive role in pushing the U.S. toward military action and argued that officials knew Iran would retaliate, amid JD Vance meeting details. He also rejected the administration’s claim that the strikes were necessary due to an imminent threat.

At the same time, the FBI investigation into alleged leaks has been unfolding in the background, creating a parallel track of scrutiny. The agency has declined to comment on the probe.

The overlap between Kent’s public criticism and the ongoing investigation has complicated the situation, raising questions about both national security policy and the handling of classified information.

Administration officials, including Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, have maintained that Iran posed a legitimate and immediate threat that justified military action. Kent’s opposing view, now coupled with the FBI probe, has intensified attention on internal divisions within the administration, amid Strait of Hormuz pleas.

The investigation remains ongoing, with no public charges announced.