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NewsWSVN 7 MiamiAugust 13, 2026Miami-Dade

USS George Washington deploys to Middle East as USS Abraham Lincoln faces extended mission

The U.S. Navy is deploying the USS George Washington to the Middle East to relieve the USS Abraham Lincoln, which has remained at sea for over 240 days during the ongoing conflict with Iran. The move follows reports of supply shortages and mental health concerns among the Lincoln's crew, prompting calls for congressional oversight and investigations into deployment conditions.

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Why It Matters

The deployment shift impacts the operational readiness of U.S. naval forces and the welfare of thousands of service members currently engaged in the conflict with Iran.

Key Facts

  • The USS Abraham Lincoln has been at sea for over 240 consecutive days.
  • The USS George Washington is currently transiting the Strait of Malacca toward the Indian Ocean.
  • The Navy prioritized mission-critical supplies on the Lincoln in the order of food, hygiene items, and mail.
  • The Navy confirmed a sailor went overboard from the Lincoln in early August and was recovered.
  • The Navy denies an increase in suicidal ideations or attempts aboard the Lincoln.
  • The USS Gerald R. Ford previously completed an 11-month deployment, the longest since the Vietnam War.
  • The Lincoln originally deployed from San Diego on Nov. 21 and arrived in the region in January.
  • The U.S. has reimposed a blockade on Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated he intends to rotate crews as quickly as possible.

Who's Mentioned

otherUSS Gerald R. Ford“Aircraft carrier that completed an 11-month deployment.”personRuben Gallego“U.S. Senator from Arizona.”personHung Cao“Acting Secretary of the Navy.”personRichard Blumenthal“U.S. Senator from Connecticut.”personPete Hegseth“Defense Secretary.”otherUSS Abraham Lincoln“Aircraft carrier currently deployed in the Middle East for over 240 days.”otherUSS George Washington“Aircraft carrier currently heading to the Middle East.”otherUSS Harry S. Truman“Aircraft carrier involved in operations against Houthi rebels.”