Washington, United States – Web Desk: Joe Kent, the former director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, has welcomed the signing of the US-Iran memorandum of understanding while issuing a stark warning that long-term success of the agreement hinges on restraining Israeli military operations in the region .
In a post on social media platform X, Kent expressed cautious optimism about President Donald Trump’s efforts to end the war, writing: “It’s very good that Trump is ending hostilities. I pray the peace holds” .
However, he emphasized that for the agreement to last, the United States must prioritize regional stability and limit Israeli military activities in Lebanon. “Restraining Israel and focusing on stability in the region will be critical to ensure the peace agreement holds,” Kent wrote on X .
Background on Kent’s Resignation
Kent resigned from his position as director of the National Counterterrorism Center in March 2026, reportedly over disagreements with US and Israeli policies toward Iran . In his resignation letter, he stated that Iran posed “no imminent threat” to the United States and that the war had been influenced by Israeli pressure and its supporters in Washington .
He publicly claimed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had “deceived” Trump into launching attacks on Iran .
Context of the Agreement
The US-Iran memorandum was finalized after months of intensive negotiations mediated by Pakistan, with support from other regional states . Under the agreement, the war on all fronts, including in Lebanon, has immediately ceased, the US naval blockade against Iran has been lifted, and the Strait of Hormuz has been reopened to commercial shipping. The parties will now enter a 60-day verification and negotiation period to address outstanding issues, including the lifting of all sanctions and Iran’s nuclear program .
Israeli Operations Continue
Kent’s warning comes despite reports of significantly reduced fighting in Lebanon in recent days . Israeli officials have emphasized that Israel was not directly involved in negotiating the US-Iran deal and does not necessarily consider itself bound by its provisions . Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared that Israel would not withdraw from territory seized in Lebanon and would continue to act against threats from Hezbollah if necessary .
Political observers note that Kent’s statement reflects a growing sentiment among some former US officials who favor de-escalation and diplomatic solutions in the Middle East. They believe the current agreement can only succeed if all parties in the region demonstrate restraint and a measured approach .
