After more than 250 days at sea: US aircraft carrier to dock in Thailand
The aircraft carrier participated in the American operation against Iran. Recently, reports emerged regarding the deterioration of the crew's mental health and a shortage of basic supplies, including food and hygiene products.
The US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln will dock in Thailand following prolonged and exhausting operations in the Middle East, during which it spent more than 250 consecutive days at sea, the AP news agency reported on Wednesday, citing Thai officials.
The aircraft carrier participated in the American operation against Iran. In recent months, concern has grown over the unusually long deployment, following reports of deteriorating mental health among crew members and a shortage of basic supplies, including food and hygiene products.
A Thai government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the Abraham Lincoln would arrive for a short visit to the country, intended to allow the crew to rest and recover.
The Royal Thai Navy stated that three vessels from a US carrier strike group are expected to make a short stop in the east of the country for rest and replenishment. The statement did not specify the names of the vessels, the port where they will dock, or the date of their arrival, due to security considerations. It was further emphasized that no military exercises would be conducted during the visit.
The US Embassy in Bangkok did not respond to an AP request, and the US Navy declined to comment on the report.
Extended deployments of aircraft carriers increase the burden on crew members, who are away from their homes for long periods, and also cause wear and tear on the vessels and their equipment. Although the conflict between the US and Iran has calmed in recent weeks, the US Navy continues to enforce the blockade on Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz. The Donald Trump administration has yet to clarify how it intends to bring the war to an end.
