US Deploys Aircraft Carrier "George Washington" to the Middle East
The "USS Lincoln" has been at sea for over 250 days without a port visit. Amid reports of harsh conditions and crew exhaustion, the US is preparing to deploy the "George Washington" to the Middle East as part of a scheduled rotation.
The US is preparing to send the aircraft carrier "George Washington" to the Middle East to replace the "USS Lincoln" as part of a pre-planned rotation. The "Lincoln" has been in the region for over 250 days, without docking for approximately 200 days, raising concerns among members of Congress regarding the service conditions of personnel on board.
The "Lincoln" departed in November and was diverted to the Middle East in January ahead of the American military campaign against Iran. The carrier and its air wing played a central role in the bombing operation "Epic Wrath" and have since participated in the blockade of Iranian ports. The intense operational tempo and prolonged time at sea are taking a toll on the sailors, leading members of Congress to demand information from the Pentagon regarding living conditions and reports of mental distress among the crew.
Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut wrote to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao, noting that the "Lincoln" has set a record for consecutive days at sea. He cited widespread reports of shortages in basic supplies, water contamination, plumbing failures, safety issues on deck, and a decline in the mental health of crew members.
Republican Representative Marlin Stutzman of Indiana stated his intention to demand an update from the Pentagon and the administration:
"At the end of the day, we know that those who serve need to be sure that they are receiving proper care."
According to an American official who spoke with the "Wall Street Journal," the decision to rotate the carriers was made as part of the scheduled deployment plan before the complaints regarding living conditions on the "Lincoln" were raised.
Meanwhile, additional reports have surfaced regarding difficult conditions faced by 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 frequent port visits is leading to exhaustion and a deterioration in the mental state of the sailors.
