The United States is preparing to send the aircraft carrier USS George Washington to the Middle East to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln as part of a previously planned rotation. The move comes after the Lincoln has been deployed for more than 250 days, including over 200 days without a port call, prompting concern among members of Congress over conditions for sailors aboard the ship.
The Lincoln departed Naval Base San Diego in November but was redirected to the Middle East in January ahead of the US war against Iran. The aircraft carrier and its embarked aircraft played a major role in the US bombing campaign, Operation Epic Fury, and the ship has since taken part in the US blockade of Iranian ports.
The intense operational tempo and prolonged period at sea have taken a toll on sailors, according to members of Congress who are demanding more information from the Pentagon about living conditions aboard the ship and reports of mental health problems among crew members.
Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut wrote to War Secretary Pete Hegseth and Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao that the Lincoln had set a record for consecutive days at sea. He cited widespread reports of shortages of basic supplies, contaminated water, plumbing problems, deteriorating mental health among crew members and safety concerns on deck.
Republican Rep. Marlin Stutzman of Indiana said he planned to seek an update from the Pentagon and the administration. "At the end of the day, we know that those who are serving have to have comfort knowing that they're getting properly taken care of," he said.
According to a US official who spoke with The Wall Street Journal, the decision to replace the aircraft carrier was made as part of a planned rotation before concerns were raised about living conditions aboard the Lincoln.
Meanwhile, additional reports have described difficult conditions facing the crew, including shortages of food and basic hygiene products such as toothpaste and soap. Members of Congress have expressed concern that the lack of more frequent port calls is contributing to exhaustion and a deterioration in sailors' mental health.
