USS Gerald R. Ford to Stay in Mediterranean Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict
TL;DR
The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and one additional vessel have been directed to stay in the Mediterranean Sea for a few more weeks by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, extending their deployment and keeping the crew away from home during the holiday season. This is the third extension of the carrier's deployment, reflecting ongoing concerns about instability in the region due to Israel's conflict with Hamas. The extension comes as the USS Ford is downsizing its crew due to a severe shortage of sailors, with approximately 500-600 sailors leaving the ship over the past six months to a year without being replaced.
- ‘Setback’ For World’s Biggest Aircraft Carrier’s Crew; US Direct Gerald R. Ford To Stay Put Near The Warzone EurAsian Times
- Pentagon orders aircraft carrier to remain in Mediterranean amid Israel-Hamas war The Times of Israel
- SECDEF Austin Extends USS Gerald R. Ford Deployment into 2024 - USNI News USNI News
- Still no word on when the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group will return from deployment 13newsnow.com WVEC
- U.S. to keep two ships in Mediterranean Sea near Israel The Columbian
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