FBI investigating Joe Kent days after resigning over Iran war

WorldPolitics
19 Mar 2026 • 9:46 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • The FBI has launched an investigation into Joe Kent, who recently resigned as President Donald Trump’s counterterrorism chief.
  • The inquiry focuses on allegations that Kent mishandled classified information, with sources suggesting it commenced months prior to his departure.
  • Kent, a 20-year Army veteran, posted his resignation letter on X, citing his inability to support the ongoing conflict in Iran, which he claimed was influenced by Israel and its American lobby.
  • Taylor Budowich, a former deputy White House chief of staff, hinted at the investigation, describing Kent as frequently involved in national security leaks.
  • The White House downplayed Kent’s resignation, with a spokeswoman stating he was not central to war discussions, and President Trump commenting he “always thought he was weak on security”.

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