The USS Abraham Lincoln has remained at sea for more than 250 days to take part in the Iran war, with about 5,000 sailors aboard, according to the report. Complaints have emerged over shortages of food and daily necessities, broken toilets, limited hot water and laundry services. Family members said sailors were exhausted and under mental strain, with some reportedly considering jumping from the ship.

Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal sought answers from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, citing food and water shortages, contaminated water, toilet problems, declining mental health and mail delays. Senator Ruben Gallego called for a congressional delegation to be allowed aboard to investigate. Representative Mike Levin described moldy showers, broken toilets, laundry outages lasting weeks, lack of hot water and limited meals, along with shortages of soap, deodorant and toothpaste.

The US Navy said it found no evidence of an increase in suicidal thoughts or attempts. It said that while normal supply arrangements had been disrupted by wartime conditions, the ship currently had clean water, functioning air conditioning and sufficient food. The Navy said supplies were being prioritized for food first, followed by hygiene items and mail. Hegseth rejected the allegations and thanked the sailors.