The US aircraft carrier USS Gerald Ford is being temporarily withdrawn from the Middle East to Greece for repairs following a major fire on board, according to media reports.
The Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that the carrier would be towed from the Red Sea after a fire broke out last week, while USNI News cited a US official confirming the vessel’s departure for repairs, without initially disclosing its destination.
The fire, which reportedly started in the ship’s main laundry area, burned for approximately 30 hours before being brought under control.
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Repairs are expected to take at least one week, according to the reports.
Despite the damage, the carrier — which has been deployed for around 10 months — had continued supporting military operations linked to the ongoing conflict with Iran.
The incident has significantly affected living conditions on board, with more than 600 sailors and crew members losing access to their sleeping quarters and being forced to rest on floors and tables following the blaze.
The temporary withdrawal of the carrier comes amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing US military operations in the Middle East.
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