Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei called on American citizens to openly reject the ongoing illegal war. The statement followed Joseph Kent’s resignation, the former director of the National Center for Counterterrorism, from the Trump administration in protest. Baghaei emphasized that rejecting the illegal war is a responsibility for every U.S. official and citizen with a clear conscience.
Kent’s resignation, therefore, highlights growing divisions within the U.S. administration over the justification for military action. He publicly stated that he could not support the conflict against Iran in good conscience. Moreover, Kent explained that Iran posed no immediate threat and suggested the United States entered the war due to external pressure.
The conflict began on February 28, when U.S. and Israeli forces launched coordinated strikes across Tehran. Subsequently, Iran responded with a series of missile and drone attacks targeting Israeli-occupied areas and U.S. military bases in the region. Since then, tensions have remained high, with both sides exchanging warnings and limited retaliatory actions.
Baghaei further noted that the war does not represent the American people’s interests. He also retweeted Kent’s post, emphasizing that those with moral clarity should take a stand against the illegal war. Consequently, the spokesman’s comments reflect Iran’s effort to appeal to U.S. citizens and officials, aiming to deepen domestic debates over the conflict.
Experts say Kent’s resignation may signal increasing scrutiny within Washington. In addition, political analysts argue that the episode could influence policy discussions in Congress. It may also pressure the White House to justify its military actions more clearly. Therefore, shifting public opinion against the illegal war could have significant consequences for U.S. strategy.
Earlier, House Speaker Mike Johnson suggested that Israel may have acted independently, leaving President Trump with difficult decisions. This situation, therefore, shows how foreign pressures and domestic political calculations intersect. In addition, the resignation of a senior counterterrorism official underscores the complexities of the conflict.
Looking ahead, observers expect continued political debates in Washington and heightened diplomatic efforts. Furthermore, Iran’s calls for Americans to disavow the illegal war may gain traction as questions about the conflict’s legitimacy persist. Both sides will likely maintain military readiness while political and public discourse develops in the United States.
The ongoing situation remains volatile, with potential regional consequences. Analysts emphasize, therefore, the importance of monitoring official statements and military movements closely. Ultimately, Baghaei’s appeal underscores Iran’s focus on influencing global opinion and shaping the narrative around the conflict.