Despite the fact that the American president most likely only has months left in the post, he chose on Monday to do a ministerial shuffle.  

Secretary of Defense Mark Esper is forced to resign with immediate effect, and Christopher T. Miller, head of the US National Anti-Terrorism Agency, takes over as acting director.

Not completely unexpected

That Mark Esper is fired is not entirely unexpected, several American media report.

In June, Esper openly opposed Trump's desire to deploy military service in connection with the demonstrations that followed a series of deadly police interventions against African Americans.

Something that should have aroused anger in Trumplägret.

According to sources close to the now dismissed Minister of Defense, he must have had a resignation letter ready for several months to be able to quickly leave with dignity, reports NBC.

In an interview with the newspaper Military Times, Mark Esper says that despite his dismissal, he is proud of the work he has done during his time at the post.

Esper, who has been criticized by critics for the unflattering "Yesper" (roughly yes-sayer) also refutes the accusations that he did not stand up for his own opinions.

- My frustration is that I sit here and think.

Hm, 18 ministers.

Who resisted more than anyone else?

Mention another minister who resisted, he tells the newspaper.

Action against Iran

Although Donald Trump most likely only has months left in power, the appointment of Christopher Miller could have consequences for US foreign policy, writes the New York Times.

Sources in the Ministry of Defense have indicated that Donald Trump may launch some form of operation, open or secret, against Iran during his last days in power.

The now incoming Miller has been one of the driving forces behind Trump's harsh sanctions against Iran and the Shiite militia Hezbollah, which is judged to be close to Iran, the newspaper writes.