Original Source
USS Gerald R. Ford Aircraft Carrier Withdraws After Fire Incident
Aircraft Carrier Operations Halted
The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier is withdrawing from its operations against Iran and heading back to port, a U.S. official familiar with the matter stated. This decision follows a fire incident in its laundry area that left at least two sailors with non-life-threatening injuries. The carrier will travel from its current location in the Red Sea to Souda Bay, on the Greek island of Crete.
Fire Incident and Impact
The fire broke out in the laundry area of the USS Gerald R. Ford, though further details on the cause or extent of the damage have not been publicly disclosed. The official, who requested anonymity, noted that the ship had previously made a stop in Souda Bay. This incident is expected to impact U.S. naval operations in the Middle East region.
*Source: SCMP (2026-03-18)*
