Pentagon turmoil continues: US Navy Secretary John Phelan suddenly resigns amid war with Iran
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed the move, saying that Phelan was “leaving the Administration effective immediately” and adding, “We are grateful to Secretary Phelan for his service to the Department and the United States Navy”.No reason was given for his sudden resignation.Phelan’s departure comes at a sensitive time, with the US Navy actively involved in enforcing a blockade of Iranian ports and targeting ships linked to Tehran amid a fragile ceasefire in the Iran conflict.The U.S. Navy also maintains a strong operational presence in major global waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding sea lanes.
Hung Kao takes over as acting navy chief
Hung Kao, a former Navy combat officer and political candidate supported by Trump, will take over as acting Secretary of the Navy.Cao, a 25-year Navy veteran who served in Iraq, Afghanistan and Somalia, previously ran unsuccessful campaigns for the U.S. Senate and House in Virginia.Since becoming Under Secretary, he has supported efforts such as reinstating service members who refused the COVID-19 vaccination mandate.
Part of broader Pentagon overhaul
Phelan’s departure adds to a growing list of changes at the top level at the Pentagon. In recent weeks, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has removed several senior military leaders, including Gen. Randy George, the Army’s top officer, as well as other generals and admirals.Earlier, high-profile dismissals included Ed. Lisa Franchetti and General Charles “CQ” Brown Jr., Reflects a broader change in military leadership beginning in 2025.Notably, Phelan had made a public appearance at a Navy conference in Washington just a day earlier, where he addressed sailors and industry leaders and discussed shipbuilding and budget priorities.
The exit took place amid rising regional tensions
The leadership change coincides with heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where recent attacks on commercial vessels and the enforcement of a US naval blockade have raised concerns over the sustainability of the ceasefire with Iran.The US has maintained the blockade despite extending the ceasefire, while Iran has criticized the move as a violation of the terms of the ceasefire and has not yet committed to fresh talks.Several US aircraft carriers are deployed to or headed to the Middle East, putting the US Navy at the center of any potential tensions if talks fail.