The US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln is set to make a brief stop in Thailand for rest and recovery following its lengthy deployment in the Middle East, Thai officials said Wednesday.
The Lincoln has been supporting the US war against Iran and spent more than 250 consecutive days at sea, setting a record for uninterrupted deployment.
The prolonged mission has raised concerns over the wellbeing of the ship’s crew, following reports of deteriorating mental health and shortages of essential supplies, including food and hygiene products.
A Thai government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to brief the media, confirmed that the aircraft carrier would make a short visit to Thailand for recuperation.
The Royal Thai Navy said on Tuesday that three ships from a US Navy carrier strike group were scheduled to make a brief stop in eastern Thailand.
The navy said the visit was intended for rest and recovery and that no military exercises would be conducted during the stopover.
It did not identify the vessels or disclose the port or arrival date, citing security concerns.
The US Embassy in Bangkok did not immediately respond to a request for comment, while the US Navy declined to comment.
Extended carrier deployments can place significant strain on service members who remain away from their families for prolonged periods, while also increasing pressure on ships and their equipment.
Although renewed hostilities between the US and Iran have eased in recent weeks, the US Navy is enforcing a reimposed blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz.
The administration of President Donald Trump has also yet to provide clear details on how it intends to bring the conflict with Iran to an end.
Boluwatife Enome
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