Suicide attempts, broken toilets and rationed food: crisis deepens aboard USS Abraham Lincoln

The USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier, has been at sea for nearly nine months in the Middle East after being redirected from its original Pacific deployment due to the war with Iran. The ship's crew of 5,000 sailors and Marines have spent around 250 consecutive days at sea, a modern-era record. Concerns about the sailors' mental health have increased as several individuals have attempted to jump overboard.

One sailor's wife reported that he had expressed fears about being kicked out of the military due to his deteriorating mental state and the end of his 13-year career. The Navy has faced criticism over the carrier's conditions, with families of sailors meeting with Navy officials in San Diego to voice their concerns. Reports detail rationed food, broken toilets, broken washing machines, water shortages, and moldy showers.

Some sailors have reported living off just half a cup of rice and two tortillas, with no soap, deodorant, or toothpaste. Lawmakers have demanded answers about the deployment's length and conditions, with Sen. Richard Blumenthal and Rep. Mike Levin describing the situation as dire. The U.S. Navy has been dealing with burnout among sailors, with a study highlighting issues like excessive noise, insufficient rest, and inadequate healthcare.

Vice Adm. Joseph Cahill acknowledged the families' concerns and the impact on the force's long-term health, but Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed the reports as "fake news."