The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has launched an investigation into former U.S. counterterrorism chief Joe Kent over allegations that he leaked classified information.
Kent, who recently resigned as Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, is suspected of improperly disclosing sensitive national security material, according to officials familiar with the matter.
The probe, which reportedly began months before his resignation, centres on whether he shared classified intelligence with unauthorised parties.
Kent stepped down from his role in protest against U.S. military actions in Iran, stating in his resignation letter that he “cannot in good conscience” support the war.
He also questioned the justification for the conflict, arguing that Iran posed “no imminent threat to our nation,” while suggesting that external pressure influenced the decision to go to war.
Following his departure, administration officials reportedly labelled him a “known leaker” and indicated that he had been excluded from key intelligence briefings prior to his resignation.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed the specific nature of the alleged leaks, citing the sensitivity of the information involved. However, the case has raised concerns about internal divisions within the U.S. national security establishment and the handling of classified intelligence.
The FBI has declined to comment on the ongoing investigation, and Kent has yet to respond in detail to the allegations.
The development comes amid heightened tensions over U.S. involvement in the Iran conflict, which has sparked debate within government circles and among policymakers regarding intelligence, strategy, and transparency.
