Who is John Phelan — why did Pete Hegseth dismiss him from US Navy leadership?

In a sudden shocking move Pete Hegseth from Department of Defence fires Navy Secretary John Phelan.

The sudden move has sent shockwaves through the Pentagon as Phelan’s firing is the latest in a series of dismissals in US military leadership amid the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran.

The dismissal comes at a critical moment as the U.S. Navy continues to enforce a high-stakes naval blockade of Iranian ports despite a fragile ceasefire.

The Pentagon confirmed the exit late Wednesday, stating that Phelan is “departing the administration, effective immediately.”

While the official statement remained brief, insiders report the firing followed months of infighting.

Sources say Phelan clashed with Hegseth over the slow pace of shipbuilding and disagreement regarding military leadership.

Although the Pentagon gave no official reason for the dismissal, reports indicate the decision was linked to internal disputes, including tensions with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Phelan’s removal is part of a broader pattern of dismissals and restructuring within the US military under President Donald Trump’s administration – including during the current war.

In addition, Phelan was reportedly under an ethics investigation, which may have weakened his standing in the administration.

Navy Undersecretary Hung Cao, who was also reported to have a difficult relationship with Phelan, has become acting secretary.

54-year-old Cao is a 25-year Navy veteran who previously ran as a Republican candidate for the US Senate and House of Representatives in 2022 and 2024 respectively, but was unsuccessful on both occasions.

Who is John Phelan:

As the US Navy’s top civilian official, Phelan had various responsibilities, including overseeing recruiting, mobilising and organising, as well as construction and repair of ships and military equipment.

He was appointed in 2024 as a political ally of Trump, despite having no prior military or defence leadership experience.

According to the Reuters news agency, 62 years, Phelan’s tenure quickly became controversial. 

He faced criticism for moving too slowly on shipbuilding reforms and for strained relationships with key Pentagon figures, including Hegseth and his deputy, Steve Feinberg.

Before entering government, Phelan was a businessman and investment executive, as well as a major Republican donor and fundraiser — a background that is fairly common among Trump appointees and advisers.