The head of the National Counterterrorism Center Joseph Kent resigned on Tuesday, becoming the first and most senior member of US President Donald Trump's administration to resign over the war in Iran, saying Tehran posed no imminent threat to the United States.
"I cannot in good conscience support the ongoing war in Iran. Iran posed no imminent threat to our nation, and it is clear that we started this war due to pressure from Israel and its powerful lobby," Kent wrote in a letter to Trump posted on X.
Some experts have said an imminent threat would be required for the United States to launch a war under current law.
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence also did not immediately respond.
Intelligence officials were caught off guard by the news.
Kent is close with Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, who has kept a low profile since the Iran war began.
Gabbard has not issued any public statements and has only appeared in public during the dignified transfer of American soldiers killed earlier this month during the conflict with Iran.
US military says it's completed 13th consecutive night of strikes on Iran
India's youth leaders to talk with government but press on with nationwide protests
Spain declares national emergency over wildfires near Madrid and in Avila
Saudi-owned vessel targeted in Red Sea, crew safe, state news agency says
Rubio says US committed to helping end Ukraine war after meeting Lavrov
