The FBI is investigating Donald Trump's former top counter-terrorism official - who resigned from the role earlier this week - over alleged leaks, sources have told CBS News, the BBC's US partner.
Joe Kent is under investigation in connection with alleged leaks of classified information, with sources indicating that the probe began before his departure as US National Counterterrorism Center director.
Announcing his resignation, Kent stated he could not support the war in Iran 'in good conscience' and claimed the country 'posed no imminent threat' to the US, a statement the White House dismissed.
The FBI has not commented on the allegations, while the BBC reached out to Kent for a response regarding the leaks.
The investigation is reportedly being conducted by the FBI's criminal division and has been underway for some time. Shortly after Kent's resignation, former deputy White House chief of staff Taylor Budowich accused him of being often at the center of national security leaks, although specifics were not provided.
In his resignation letter addressed to Trump, Kent expressed his concerns over the war in Iran, attributing its initiation to pressure from Israel and its influential lobby in the US. The Anti-Defamation League condemned his statements, describing them as perpetuating outdated antisemitic tropes.
Following his resignation, the White House maintained that there was compelling evidence supporting a potential Iranian attack on the US. Trump later commented on Kent’s departure, suggesting that it was a positive development given his security stance.
Joe Kent, a decorated military veteran and longtime Trump supporter, was confirmed to his position in July 2025 after an unsuccessful run for Congress.
