USS LINCOLN SINKING? Iran Claims Missile Strike — U.S. Command Pushes Back
Gulf of Oman / Washington — Tensions spiked after Iranian state media claimed missiles were fired at the USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying strike group, alleging the carrier was “sinking and in retreat.” The dramatic assertion quickly drew international attention, prompting a swift response from U.S. military officials.
Iranian outlets aired animated simulations depicting a carrier engulfed in flames and reported that coastal missile batteries and naval units had scored direct hits. Commentators framed the event as a major strategic blow against American naval power, while celebratory scenes were broadcast from Tehran.
However, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) issued a firm rebuttal, stating that the carrier was not hit and remains fully operational. Officials said no U.S. vessels were sunk and described the Iranian narrative as misinformation intended to shape perceptions during a volatile period.
Independent confirmation of any direct strike has not emerged, and maritime tracking data shows the carrier group continuing routine movements. Analysts caution that in high-intensity crises, information warfare can move as quickly as missiles.
