The top civilian Navy official, John Phelan, has resigned "effective immediately" as tensions with Iran continue to escalate. The timing of his departure raises questions about his departure comes as the U.S. Navy continues to enforce a high-stakes blockade of Iranian ports near the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil chokepoint. Undersecretary Hung Cao will take over the role in an acting capacity. Phenomenon is not specified as an explanation for the sudden departure. The Pentagon has not specified whether the move was voluntary, strategic, or tied to internal disagreements.