Former CIA analyst Larry Johnson claimed that nearly 30 sailors aboard the US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln attempted suicide amid a prolonged Iran war. Johnson made the remarks on Monday night during Al Mayadeen’s program “The Great Standoff: Iran and the World,” in a discussion with Tehran University professor Mohammad Marandi. The article was published on August 18, 2026.

Johnson said a report had cited six sailors attempting to jump into the water, but a recently retired US military officer told him the actual number might be closer to 30. He also alleged that morale and suicide-related concerns extend to other branches of the US military. Johnson further claimed the United States faces growing constraints in advanced weapons stocks, supply systems and naval logistics.

Marandi said Iran may be better able than the United States to withstand a long war, while rising fuel costs could intensify US public opposition. Both speakers described disruption in the Strait of Hormuz as a major economic risk. They also discussed Iran’s ties with Russia, China and Pakistan, and potential Iran-Oman arrangements concerning the waterway.