The Pentagon announced the immediate departure of John Phelan, the Secretary of the Navy, marking another significant leadership change within the U.S. military. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed Phelan's exit, which reportedly follows his firing by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Phelan's departure comes just a day after he addressed sailors and industry professionals at the Navy's annual conference in Washington, D.C.. His exit is part of a broader trend, as Hegseth has dismissed several high-ranking military officials since taking office last year, although no reasons were provided for Phelan's departure. This change occurs amid heightened tensions, as the U.S. Navy enforces a blockade of Iranian ports and targets vessels linked to Tehran during an ongoing ceasefire in the Iran conflict. Phelan, who was nominated by former President Donald Trump in late 2024, had no prior military service or civilian leadership experience in the Navy. He is known for his significant financial contributions to Trump's campaign and his role in founding Rugger Management LLC. Taking over as acting Secretary is Hung Cao, a 25-year Navy veteran who previously ran for the U.S. Senate in Virginia and has a personal history of fleeing Vietnam as a child.