Beirut: The US Naval Forces Central Command – Fifth Fleet announced today, Thursday, that a fire broke out on the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford. The Central Command stated that “the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) experienced a fire on March 12 that began in the ship’s main laundry facilities,” confirming that “the cause of the fire was not related to combat operations and it has been contained.”

According to National Iraqi News Agency, it was confirmed that “there was no damage to the ship’s propulsion units (engines) and that the aircraft carrier remains fully operational.” The incident did result in injuries, as “two sailors are currently receiving medical treatment for non-life-threatening injuries and are in stable condition,” with assurances given that “additional information will be provided as it becomes available.”

The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group is currently operating in the Red Sea in support of Operation Epic Fury. The situation is being closely monitored, and the US Naval Forces Central Command is expected to release further updates as more information becomes available.