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Pentagon: Phelan Fired Publicly, Cao Takes Helm Amid Hormuz Blockade

4/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Pentagon officials said Navy Secretary John C. Phelan learned of his removal from a public statement.
Phelan leaves, prompting Undersecretary Hung Cao, a Navy veteran with President Donald Trump’s endorsement, to become acting secretary as the Navy enforces a Strait of Hormuz blockade estimated at least six months to clear mines.
The change follows months of tension with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, including a top aide’s firing.

History

Historical Context

The National Security Act of 1947 established the Department of Defense, creating the Secretary of Defense position to oversee military operations. Recently, tensions between Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Navy Secretary John C. Phelan culminated in Phelan's removal, reflecting ongoing leadership struggles that can significantly affect military strategy, particularly during critical operations like the Strait of Hormuz blockade.

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Story summary

Pentagon officials said Navy Secretary John C. Phelan learned of his removal from a public statement.
Phelan leaves, prompting Undersecretary Hung Cao, a Navy veteran with President Donald Trump’s endorsement, to become acting secretary as the Navy enforces a Strait of Hormuz blockade estimated at least six months to clear mines.
The change follows months of tension with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, including a top aide’s firing.

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