Discussing the USS Lincoln carrier strike group, whose deployment was cited as part of the U.S.' "clear and unmistakable message" in response to "troubling and escalatory indications and warnings" from Iran, a senior U.S. naval commander indicated that "if I need to bring it inside the strait [of Hormuz], I will do so... I'm not restricted in any way". He added that "I am not in a war-plan footing and have not been tasked to do so. However, we are absolutely ready to respond to any aggression against the U.S., partners in the region or our interests".