The United States is sending the Pacific aircraft carrier USS George Washington toward the Middle East amid reports of mental-health and supply problems aboard USS Abraham Lincoln, which has supported the US war against Iran. An Associated Press report, citing a Navy official, said George Washington was in the Malacca Strait and had been ordered toward the Indian Ocean. It may replace Abraham Lincoln, one of two US carriers deployed in the region.

Abraham Lincoln left San Diego on November 21, 2025, reached the Middle East in January 2026, and has spent more than 260 days at sea. Families and US lawmakers have raised concerns about a worsening mental-health crisis, including reports that multiple service members tried to jump from the ship. The Navy said wartime disruption to traditional Middle East supply hubs caused shortages and lost mail.

The Navy said leadership prioritized food, hygiene supplies and then mail, adding that sailors now have clean water and healthy food options. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth rejected reports about poor conditions as misrepresented. Democratic lawmakers have sought an investigation, more information and transparency, while Senator Ruben Gallego said he was planning a formal bipartisan visit to the carrier.