Navy Secretary John Phelan Fired Amid Shipbuilding Disputes During Iran War
U.S. Navy Secretary John Phelan was abruptly fired Wednesday night effective immediately, making him the first military service head to depart under Trump's second term. The ouster came after clashes with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over shipbuilding reform and Trump's "Golden Fleet" initiative during the ongoing naval blockade of Iran.
Sudden Pentagon Departure
Secretary of the Navy John Phelan was ousted from his position Wednesday, six sources familiar with the matter told CNN, amid tension with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over his implementation of shipbuilding reform and his close relationship with President Donald Trump. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said Wednesday evening that Phelan would be departing "effective immediately" — a surprise announcement that came even while the US Navy is carrying out a blockade of Iranian ports during a ceasefire in the Iran war.
Core Disagreements
The speed and approach Phelan was taking when it came to shipbuilding, a challenge in which President Trump has taken a personal interest, appears to have been the main reason for the firing. They clashed not only on shipbuilding, but also the Golden Fleet, Trump's signature naval initiative, as well as the deployment of ships around the world.
Leadership Transition
Another Trump loyalist is taking over as acting head of the Navy: Undersecretary Hung Cao, a 25-year Navy combat veteran who ran unsuccessful campaigns for the U.S. Senate and House in Virginia. Phelan's departure is the latest in a series of shakeups of top leadership at the Pentagon, coming just weeks after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth fired the Army's top uniformed officer, Gen. Randy George.