Trump Defends Extended USS Abraham Lincoln Deployment Amid Concerns Over Sailors’ Welfare

WASHINGTON: U.S. President Donald Trump has defended the prolonged deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln, saying the aircraft carrier’s record-setting time at sea was “not nearly long enough” despite growing concerns about the wellbeing of sailors serving aboard the vessel.

The Lincoln has spent more than 240 consecutive days at sea and more than 260 days on its overall deployment while supporting U.S. military operations against Iran. Trump said the carrier was expected to move soon and would be replaced by another aircraft carrier. Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao also said the Lincoln would return home soon.

The unusually lengthy deployment has raised concerns among lawmakers and military families over sailors’ mental health, food supplies, sanitation and access to medical care. Several Democratic lawmakers have called for greater Pentagon accountability and requested a classified briefing on conditions aboard the carrier.

The Navy has rejected reports of widespread problems aboard the ship, saying it has not observed an increase in suicidal thoughts or attempts among the crew. Officials have nevertheless acknowledged that the ongoing conflict has disrupted traditional supply routes, resulting in shortages and delays in mail deliveries.

Another U.S. aircraft carrier, the USS George Washington, is heading toward the Middle East and is expected to relieve the Lincoln. The move comes as Washington continues military operations related to the conflict with Iran and maintains a naval blockade around Iranian ports in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

Trump, who had campaigned on avoiding prolonged U.S. military engagements, acknowledged that his administration has used the military more than he had initially intended. However, he maintained that the U.S. operation against Iran was proceeding successfully and defended his decision to continue the campaign.

The extended deployment has intensified debate in Washington over the strain placed on U.S. military personnel and naval assets as the conflict enters its sixth month, with questions remaining over the timeline for bringing the Lincoln’s crew home and reducing the U.S. military presence in the region.