The White House pushed back against claims made by Joe Kent, director of the National Counterterrorism Center, after his resignation on March 17, 2026. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt rejected Kent’s assertion that Iran posed no imminent threat, affirming that President Donald Trump had “strong and compelling evidence” Iran planned an attack on the United States.
Dispute Over Iran Threat Assessment
Kent resigned citing his refusal to support the ongoing conflict with Iran, alleging the war was initiated under pressure from Israel and its lobbying in the U.S. He stated publicly that Iran did not present an immediate danger. In response, Leavitt characterized these claims as false and aligned with narratives spread by Democrats and parts of the media. She emphasized that Trump’s military decisions were based on extensive intelligence, not external influence.
White House Details on Iran’s Military Capabilities
Leavitt described Iran as the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism and highlighted its expansion of short-range ballistic missiles and naval capabilities aimed at establishing a strategic shield. This, she said, would allow Iran to threaten global security and pursue its objective of developing nuclear weapons. The Trump administration launched Operation Epic Fury to counter these threats, including a joint strike with Israel designed to minimize risks to American lives.
Trump’s Nuclear Policy on Iran
The press secretary reiterated that Trump has maintained a long-standing stance against Iran obtaining nuclear weapons and stressed that his decisions are guided by U.S. national interests. Leavitt dismissed allegations that Trump’s actions were heavily influenced by foreign entities as “insulting and laughable,” underscoring the president’s commitment to an America First policy.
For more stories on this topic, visit our category page.
