US Navy Secretary Abruptly Resigns Amid Critical Moment: Pentagon's Explanation
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA – The United States Navy Secretary, John C. Phelan, has abruptly resigned with immediate effect. This sudden resignation extends the list of high-ranking officials who have left the cabinet or been dismissed under President Donald Trump’s administration.
Before Phelan, several prominent names had already stepped down from their positions due to various political dynamics and internal reshuffles, including Lori Chavez-DeRemer (Secretary of Labour), who resigned, as well as Kristi Noem (Secretary of Homeland Security/DHS) and Pam Bondi (Attorney General), who were removed from their posts.
In addition to civilian officials, these reshuffles have also targeted military leaders, such as General Randy George (Chief of Staff of the Army) and General CQ Brown (Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff), who were relieved of their duties, creating a wave of uncertainty in the US national leadership structure.
The announcement of Phelan’s resignation was made by the Pentagon’s chief spokesperson, Sean Parnell, via social media platform X on Wednesday. In his statement, Parnell, who also serves as Assistant Secretary of Defence for Public Affairs, provided no detailed explanation regarding the reasons for the resignation. He merely stated that the position would be filled on an interim basis promptly.
Deputy Navy Secretary, Hung Cao, has been appointed to take over the role temporarily until further decisions are made by the government.
Phelan’s resignation comes amid rising military tensions in the Middle East region. Currently, the US Navy is conducting blockade operations against Iranian ports around the Strait of Hormuz.
This action is taking place in the context of a ceasefire in the conflict involving the United States and Iran, which previously triggered military escalation in that strategic area.
As a civilian official, the Navy Secretary plays a crucial role in overseeing the Department of the Navy, including strategic policy, administration, budgeting, and operational readiness.
This position also ensures coordination between military and civilian elements in executing US maritime operations across various regions.
The resignation also occurs amid internal dynamics at the Pentagon since Pete Hegseth’s leadership. The Defence Secretary has previously carried out several changes among senior military officials.
In early April, Hegseth reportedly dismissed the US Army Chief of Staff, Randy George, along with two other generals.
This move was made amid increasing operational pressures on the US military, particularly related to the conflict in the Middle East.
To date, there is no clarity on whether Phelan’s resignation is directly related to these dynamics or other factors.
The day before the resignation announcement, Phelan was still actively carrying out his duties. He even delivered a speech at the annual Sea Air Space maritime conference held near Washington, DC.
His presence at that forum indicates no public indications of plans for an imminent resignation.