US Navy to Deploy USS George Washington to Middle East, Replacing Lincoln

The United States is planning to deploy the aircraft carrier USS George Washington to the Middle East to relieve the USS Abraham Lincoln following an extended mission in the region, officials confirmed.

The move was first reported by The Wall Street Journal on Thursday.

The USS Abraham Lincoln has been deployed for more than 250 days, operating continuously at sea without a port visit for over 200 days. The prolonged deployment has sparked growing concerns among congressional lawmakers regarding crew fatigue and worsening shipboard conditions.

Extended Operations Take Their Toll
Originally deployed last November, the Lincoln carrier strike group was redirected toward the Middle East in January. The warship played a crucial role during military operations against Iran—including Operation Epic Fury—and subsequently led naval blockade enforcement around Iranian ports.

However, months of continuous operations have created severe strain on the crew. In a joint letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao, Senator Richard Blumenthal raised alarms over declining living standards aboard the vessel.

"Reports indicate critical shortages of basic supplies, water contamination, sewage system failures, deteriorating mental health among personnel, flight deck safety risks, and major mail delivery disruptions," Blumenthal noted. He added that numerous care packages sent by families have gone missing for months.

Calls for Pentagon Oversight
Lawmakers are now pressing the Defense Department for immediate answers and remediation. Representative Marlin Stutzman told CNN that he intends to demand comprehensive briefings from Pentagon officials.

"Those serving our country deserve complete confidence that their health, safety, and well-being are being properly cared for," Stutzman stated.