Kent Co-Author Defends Ally’s Expertise on Iran

Journalist Defends Joe Kent’s Iran Expertise Amid Controversy

Journalist Marty Scovelin Jr., who co-authored a book with Joe Kent, has spoken out to defend Kent’s deep knowledge of Iran and Middle East conflicts. Scovelin addressed questions about Kent’s past statements and his credibility, particularly concerning his expertise on Iran and potential conflicts in the region. The conversation arose amid scrutiny of Kent’s political views and his qualifications to assess threats. Scovelin emphasized Kent’s extensive background in intelligence and special operations.

Scovelin: Kent Wouldn’t Leak Classified Information

Scovelin firmly stated his belief that Joe Kent would not leak classified intelligence. “No,” Scovelin answered directly when asked if Kent would leak. He highlighted Kent’s 20-year career in intelligence and special operations, including his time as an Army Ranger, Special Forces soldier, and with the CIA’s ground branch. Scovelin pointed out that Kent insisted on submitting the book he co-authored with Kent, about Kent’s late wife Shannon, for pre-publication review by the Department of Defense and intelligence agencies. This, Scovelin argued, shows Kent’s commitment to principles and adherence to rules, rather than a pattern of leaking sensitive information.

Kent’s Principles and Public Persona

“He just does not have a track record of anything other than standing on his principles,” Scovelin said. He added that Kent’s public and private personas align. “What he says in private is what he says in public. Means what he says, says what he means.” Scovelin acknowledged that Kent’s political views, including his past comments on January 6th and his strong stance as a MAGA hardliner, are subject to public debate and criticism. However, he distinguished these political comments from Kent’s core expertise.

Expertise on Iran is Undeniable

While acknowledging that Kent’s political commentary on other topics may be open to question, Scovelin strongly asserted Kent’s unparalleled expertise on the Middle East, Iran, and regional warfare. “And do I think that he’s an expert on all things, the Middle East and Iran and war in that region? Yes, absolutely,” Scovelin stated. He explained that while Kent has commented on other subjects as a politician, his extensive 20 years of experience in Middle Eastern conflicts form the basis of his specialized knowledge. Scovelin believes it is right to question public figures but stressed that Kent’s qualifications in his area of expertise are beyond doubt. “But you can’t deny that Joe Kent is probably the most qualified person in any room he’s in when it comes to talking about Iran or war with Iran.”

Addressing Accusations of Anti-Semitism

Scovelin also addressed accusations that Kent’s strong feelings about Israel and its lobbying influence in the U.S. constitute anti-Semitism. Republican Senator Mitch McConnell had called Kent’s rhetoric “virulent anti-Semitism.” Scovelin disagreed, stating, “No, it just doesn’t match up with anything that I’ve discussed with him in private or anything that he’s said in public.” He carefully distinguished between criticizing the nation of Israel and its policies versus expressing prejudice against the Jewish people or faith. Scovelin noted that Kent has never made negative comments about the Jewish people or faith. In fact, he mentioned that Kent has been complimentary of Israel’s intelligence and military capabilities, including in a recent interview. Scovelin suggested that Kent’s issue is with what he perceives as undue influence from Israel, and potentially other nations, on U.S. government policy. He characterized Kent as someone who is not afraid to raise concerns, regardless of the audience, whether it be the Director of National Intelligence, the President, or international partners.

Concerns Over Presidential Decision-Making on Iran

Scovelin, a combat veteran who deployed five times to the Middle East, expressed concern about how the President digests intelligence and the potential risks to U.S. troops. He stated that the U.S. has not had a successful track record in Middle Eastern military campaigns. While Scovelin expressed no sympathy for the Iranian regime, citing their actions against their own people, his primary concern lies with American lives. “But when we are doing things in the Middle East or any part of the world where American lives are being put on the line, American service members,” he said, his concern is paramount.

Call for Congressional War Powers

Scovelin emphasized the need for Congress to reclaim its war powers and act as a check on executive authority. He argued that too much power has been ceded to the executive branch over the past two decades. Scovelin stressed the importance of transparency regarding military campaigns against Iran. “We need to know what the outcome is for this campaign against Iran. We need to know what the goals are. We need to know the actual reason because there’s been multiple reasons cited,” he stated. He concluded by reiterating his concern and demanding clarity on the objectives and end plan for any potential conflict. “So yes, I am concerned, and I want to know why and when and how we’re going to be concluding this war or what the success criteria is.”

Source: 'The most qualified person when it comes to Iran' Co-author of Kent's book speaks out (YouTube)