The USS Abraham Lincoln has been operating in Middle Eastern waters for nearly nine consecutive months, prompting concern among families about the mental health and safety of about 5,000 sailors and service members aboard. US warships are normally deployed for roughly six months, but the carrier has remained at sea far longer than that period. The report was published on August 15, 2026.

According to US officials, more than 10,000 combat aircraft sorties have been launched from the Abraham Lincoln over the past eight months. Personnel have also worked under the threat of Iranian missile and drone attacks. Jefferson Kelly, father of a sailor, said older warships require crews to work long hours to keep them operational. Senator Richard Blumenthal wrote to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth seeking accountability over complaints involving clean water, bathrooms and mental strain.

US Central Command rejected the allegations, saying there had been no deaths aboard and that reports about suicide risk were inaccurate. The Navy said water, air conditioning, sufficient food, doctors and counselors were available despite some wartime delivery delays. Families met Navy officials last week. The USS George Washington is heading toward the Middle East to assume duties, though the Abraham Lincoln may need several more weeks to return to the United States.