AP Top News at 5:39 p.m. EDT

New aircraft carrier heads toward Mideast after reports of issues on long-deployed USS LincolnWASHINGTON (AP) — The Pacific-based aircraft carrier USS George Washington has begun heading toward the Middle East as reports have emerged of mental health and supply issues aboard the long-deployed USS Abraham Lincoln. The Lincoln has been supporting the U.S. war against Iran, and its deployment has included a record-setting uninterrupted time at sea of more than 240 days. Several Democratic lawmakers are pressing for accountability from the Pentagon over conditions aboard the carrier, which Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Thursday said were “completely misrepresented.” Extended deployments of carriers during the Iran conflict have raised concerns about the impact on service members who are aw