US counter-terrorism chief who resigned says he fears retaliation but has no regrets

The Guardian US News
by Edward Helmore
March 21, 2026
3 min read

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The Bottom Line

Trump's counter-terrorism chief resigned over Iran war policy and fears political retaliation.

AI Summary

Joe Kent, a counter-terrorism official in the Trump administration, resigned over US and Israel's war against Iran and has now said he fears political retaliation but stands by his decision. In an interview with Megyn Kelly, Kent asserted that "facts are on my side" despite facing an FBI investigation following his departure. His resignation represents a rare public break from within the Trump administration on a major foreign policy matter. Kent's willingness to speak out publicly about his concerns over the Iran war, despite potential consequences, underscores internal tension over the administration's Middle East strategy. The case raises questions about dissent within the executive branch and potential accountability measures against officials who oppose administration policies.

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An FBI investigation is underway regarding the resigned official.

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