美国海军航母林肯号因部署期间的生活条件问题成为关注焦点。该舰已在中东海域部署超过260天，支持对伊朗的战争行动[1]。林肯号从圣地亚哥于11月部署，1月抵达中东[1]。原定5月返回的林肯号至今仍未按期结束任务[1]。
船员通过社交媒体反映的舰上状况引发了民主党议员的担忧。网络上流传的图片显示水手抱怨"无法使用的厕所"、"半生不熟的鸡肉"和缺乏定期邮件投递[1]。本月早些时候林肯号有一名水手坠海，但人员被迅速救起[1]。海军否认观察到舰上自杀倾向或企图有所增加[1]。康州参议员理查德·布卢门撒尔在致海军领导的信函中表示林肯号的延长部署"特别重要"[1]。
对于舰上状况的报道，国防部长皮特·海格塞斯声称这些条件被"完全歪曲"[1]。美国海军太平洋舰队的乔治·华盛顿号将赴中东接替林肯号[1]。
The USS Abraham Lincoln has drawn scrutiny over crew morale and supply shortages following an extended deployment in the Middle East. The carrier has been operating in the region for more than 260 days in support of military operations that began on February 28, having departed San Diego in November and arrived in the Middle East in January.[1] Originally scheduled to return in May, the vessel has remained beyond its planned rotation date.[1]
Reports circulating on social media have highlighted complaints from crew members regarding deteriorating conditions aboard, including problems with sanitation facilities, meal quality, and mail delivery.[1] Earlier this month, a sailor fell overboard but was quickly rescued.[1] The Pentagon has disputed characterizations of these issues, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stating that conditions have been "completely distorted".[1] The Navy has also denied observing any increase in suicidal ideation or suicide attempts among personnel.[1]
Democratic lawmakers have called for accountability regarding the prolonged deployment and its effects on crew welfare. Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal emphasized in a letter to Navy leadership that the extended deployment of the Abraham Lincoln carries "particular significance".[1] The USS George Washington, operating under US Pacific Fleet command, is scheduled to replace the Lincoln in the Middle East.[1]