Asia-Pacific left without US aircraft carrier after Middle East deployment

The USS Abraham Lincoln has departed the Middle East following a nine-month deployment, according to a U.S. official. The aircraft carrier, stationed in Japan, has taken its place, replacing the Lincoln. Family members have expressed concerns over the sailors' mental health, sanitary conditions, and food shortages. The Lincoln, which embarked from San Diego on November 21, initially joined the war with Iran in February, prolonging their mission and increasing workload.

The ship has facilitated thousands of aircraft flights conducting strikes. Worries on Capitol Hill were heightened by family members' concerns, which appeared in The Military Times and Stars and Stripes. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and President Trump downplayed these issues, with Mr. Trump asserting the deployment hadn't been lengthy enough.

Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao dismissed media coverage as dishonest. U.S. Central Command Adm. Brad Cooper visited the ship to address complaints, noting deployment at sea is challenging and its impact varies for each individual. He emphasized mental health is crucial, though he didn't confirm specific issues. The Navy stated they haven't observed an increase in suicide attempts or suicidal ideation.

An incident on August 3 where a sailor fell overboard and was recovered is under investigation. Family member Jefferson Kelley eagerly awaited his son's return, expressing the desire to be present for his child. The Lincoln is projected to return to San Diego in approximately three weeks.