White House Affirms Trump’s Support for Intelligence Chief Amid Counterterrorism Shake-Up

Press secretary defends administration stance on Iran threat following resignation of senior official.

By yourNEWS Media Newsroom

The White House said Wednesday that President Donald Trump maintains full confidence in Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, as questions emerged following the resignation of a senior counterterrorism official and ongoing military operations involving Iran.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the president’s position during a television appearance, stating that Trump continues to support Gabbard and is monitoring developments surrounding her role. She also indicated that the administration was focused on scheduled proceedings involving the intelligence chief.

When asked later by reporters whether Gabbard’s position was at risk, Leavitt said she was not aware of any such concerns and had not heard the president suggest any change in leadership.

The remarks came shortly after Joe Kent stepped down as director of the National Counterterrorism Center. In his resignation letter, Kent asserted that Iran did not present an imminent threat and claimed that Israel had influenced U.S. involvement in the conflict.

The National Counterterrorism Center operates under the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, placing Kent directly under Gabbard’s leadership.

Leavitt rejected Kent’s assertions, describing them as inaccurate and unsupported by intelligence assessments. She also addressed questions about Kent’s prior appointment, stating that the president had initially supported him based on his military background but later determined he was not suited for the role.

According to the White House, intelligence assessments contradict Kent’s claims regarding Iran. Leavitt stated that available intelligence indicated Iran had been rapidly advancing its ballistic missile capabilities, which administration officials viewed as part of a broader effort tied to nuclear development.

She added that the president authorized military action to preempt potential threats to U.S. personnel, installations, and regional assets.

The developments highlight internal disagreements within national security leadership as the administration continues to navigate military and strategic decisions related to Iran, while publicly reaffirming support for its top intelligence official.