US Gerald R. Ford Carrier Temporarily Docked in Greece Following Fire Incident

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier is temporarily docked in the port of Heraklion, Greece, according to U.S. officials cited by Reuters. This development follows a fire incident aboard the vessel last week, which the U.S. Navy confirmed resulted in non-fatal injuries to two crew members.

While the U.S. Navy acknowledged the fire, it denied any connection to military engagements, specifically stating it was not related to any conflict with Iran or the impact of Iranian missiles. The Navy asserted that the operational readiness of the 100,000-ton carrier, which had been deployed in the Red Sea during the Iran conflict, was unaffected by the fire and subsequent damage.

The American newspaper The New York Times also reported on the challenging conditions faced by the crew of the $13 billion warship. The report detailed the damages incurred, noting that approximately 600 sailors lost their living quarters due to the fire and are now sleeping on tables or the carrier’s deck. Many also lack access to laundry facilities.