Departed counterterrorism official who resigned over Iran war denies leaking classified documents

Joe Kent, the former US counterterrorism director who resigned this week in protest over the Iran war, on Friday denied allegations that he improperly shared classified information.

According to The Associated Press, the FBI is investigating whether Kent leaked sensitive information, citing a source familiar with the matter. The person said the probe had begun before his resignation on Tuesday, though no further details were disclosed.

“As for the leak allegations, I’m not concerned because I know I did nothing wrong,” Kent said during an appearance on SiriusXM’s The Megyn Kelly Show, suggesting he was being targeted for speaking out.

“I am concerned because we’ve all seen the FBI and the full weight of the government come down on individuals who speak out,” he added.

The Justice Department has in recent months pursued several investigations into perceived political opponents of Donald Trump, including former FBI Director James Comey, though prosecutors have struggled to bring charges in those cases.

Kent, who led the National Counterterrorism Center, stepped down earlier this week, saying he “cannot in good conscience” support the Trump administration’s war in Iran. In a post on X, he argued that Iran posed no imminent threat to the United States and claimed the conflict was driven by pressure from Israel and its American allies.

Trump later dismissed Kent’s stance, telling reporters he viewed him as “weak on security,” adding that those who do not see Iran as a threat have no place in his administration. Other officials, including CIA Director John Ratcliffe, have also distanced themselves from Kent and his assessment.