Story perspectives

Phelan Fired, Hung Cao Leads Navy Amid Iran Blockade

4/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

John Phelan was removed as Navy secretary while the Navy blocks Iranian ports amid a fragile U.S.–Iran cease-fire.
Undersecretary Hung Cao, a 25-year Navy veteran and congressional candidate, becomes acting Navy secretary.
John Phelan, a Trump donor with no military service, faced an ethics probe and strained ties with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, prompting Senator Jack Reed to call the firing evidence of Defense Department instability under President Donald Trump.

History

Historical Context

In 2019, U.S. Navy Secretary Richard Spencer was dismissed amid rising tensions with Iran, following his controversial handling of Navy SEAL Eddie Gallagher, which drew criticism from Congress, including Senator Jack Reed. This incident echoes past leadership challenges, such as Secretary Chuck Hagel's resignation in 2014, highlighting ongoing instability within the Defense Department and raising concerns about military leadership and U.S. foreign policy.

1 of 2

Story summary

John Phelan was removed as Navy secretary while the Navy blocks Iranian ports amid a fragile U.S.–Iran cease-fire.
Undersecretary Hung Cao, a 25-year Navy veteran and congressional candidate, becomes acting Navy secretary.
John Phelan, a Trump donor with no military service, faced an ethics probe and strained ties with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, prompting Senator Jack Reed to call the firing evidence of Defense Department instability under President Donald Trump.

1 / 2