Secretary of the Navy John Phelan was dismissed from his post on Wednesday with immediate effect, amid internal tensions within the Pentagon and in a context of growing military pressure due to the conflict with Iran.

Context of tension with Iran

Phelan's departure comes at a delicate moment for US foreign policy. The Navy maintains a naval blockade of Iran, within the framework of a fragile ceasefire. In recent days, US forces have intercepted vessels in the Strait of Hormuz,an action that Tehran has described as a violation of existing agreements.

The White House, however, has defended the operation, asserting that the actions have targeted vessels considered international and that the blockade has been effective in containing activities deemed hostile.

During his tenure, Phelan promoted initiatives aligned with the Trump administration's vision, such as the announcement of a new class of battleships and controversial decisions regarding internal discipline.

However, his profile as a businessman with no prior military experience was also questioned since his appointment in 2015.

To date, Phelan has not issued any public statements regarding his dismissal. It is also unclear whether he chose to resign or was removed directly, although reports indicate he was given the option of choosing between the two.

His departure marks the first dismissal of a secretary of a military branch in the current administration and reflects the tensions facing the defense establishment in a complex international context.