The U.S. will implement economic measures against Iran described by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as unprecedented. Bessent stated that these measures will involve significant economic isolation and a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz to restrict movement in and out of Iranian ports.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated that the military is prepared to maintain a naval blockade of Iran indefinitely, with plans to rotate ships as necessary. Reports suggest that the USS George Washington is set to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln, which has been deployed for over 250 days in the Middle East, with its deployment originally expected to conclude in May.
Hegseth addressed concerns regarding conditions aboard the Lincoln, which have included allegations of food shortages and declining morale. He stated that such reports were misrepresented. In response, Rep. Mike Levin (D-Calif.) expressed serious concerns in a letter regarding the living conditions reported by military families, including issues with sanitation and supply shortages.
U.S. Central Command refuted claims of a violent incident aboard the Lincoln, stating that no service members have died, despite Iranian media reports suggesting otherwise.