US Defense Chief Calls Reports of Carrier Crew Hardships 'Completely Distorted'

Thousands of US military personnel who have spent more than 250 days aboard an aircraft carrier have reportedly faced food shortages, broken plumbing, and severe exhaustion. This has prompted lawmakers to demand answers from the Pentagon and pressure the administration of Donald Trump regarding the war with Iran. Military news outlets have reported that some sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln have attempted to jump overboard, while families of service members have expressed concerns about their loved ones' mental health.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Thursday called such reports completely distorted. The aircraft carrier left California in November and headed to the South China Sea, but was later sent to the Middle East in connection with strikes on Iran that began in February. The mission was initially expected to conclude in May but has been extended multiple times.

A return date has not yet been announced. On Thursday, several media outlets reported that the US is preparing to replace this ship with the USS George Washington as part of a previously planned rotation.