US Navy secretary fired as Pentagon turmoil grows during Iran blockade

US Navy Secretary John Phelan has been abruptly removed from his post amid rising internal tensions at the Pentagon and ongoing military operations linked to Iran.

The Pentagon announced that Phelan was leaving “effective immediately” in a brief statement that did not explain the reason for his departure.

His exit comes during a critical moment, as US naval forces continue enforcing a blockade of Iranian ports and operating in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route.

According to officials, the decision was agreed upon by President Donald Trump and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who concluded that new leadership was needed at the Navy.

Phelan had faced growing friction with senior Pentagon leaders, including Hegseth, particularly over shipbuilding reforms and personnel decisions.

His removal is part of a broader shake-up within the Defence Department, where several high-ranking officials have been dismissed in recent weeks, contributing to concerns about instability during an active military conflict.

Despite the leadership change, US naval operations are continuing, with multiple warships deployed in the region as part of the blockade and wider confrontation with Iran.

Phelan will be replaced on an acting basis by Navy Undersecretary Hung Cao.