Iran Claims Ballistic Missile Attack on USS Abraham Lincoln Amidst Escalating Tensions

Tehran claims its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched four ballistic missiles at the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), marking a significant escalation in regional tensions following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The claim, made on March 1, 2026, is part of what Iran calls “Operation True Promise 4.”

IRGC Claims Direct Hit

According to a statement released by the IRGC and carried by Iranian state media, the USS Abraham Lincoln was directly struck by the ballistic missiles. The statement warned that “land and sea will increasingly become graveyards for terrorist aggressors.” Eurasian Times and Times Now News both reported on the IRGC’s assertion.

U.S. Response and Verification

The U.S. Military has refuted Iran’s claim. U.S. Central Command stated on X (formerly Twitter) that the USS Abraham Lincoln was not hit and that the missiles launched “didn’t even come close.” The Economic Times reported on this denial.

Casualties Reported

The Pentagon announced that three U.S. Service members were killed in action and five were seriously wounded during operations against Iran. These are the first casualties reported among U.S. Personnel since the U.S. And Israel launched an offensive that resulted in the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday, February 28, 2026. Eurasian Times reported this information.

Operation True Promise 4

The alleged attack on the USS Abraham Lincoln is part of “Operation True Promise 4,” which Tehran describes as a campaign targeting U.S. And allied military assets across the Middle East. The IRGC statement indicated that the operation involves multiple waves of missiles and drones aimed at naval vessels and bases in countries including Kuwait and Qatar. The Economic Times details this operation.

USS Abraham Lincoln Deployment

Satellite imagery verified by BBC Verify showed the USS Abraham Lincoln positioned near the coast of Oman on February 15, 2026. The carrier is operating with three Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers and carries approximately 90 aircraft, including F-35 fighter jets, with a crew of around 5,680. The Economic Times provides details on the carrier’s capabilities.

Ongoing Tensions

This incident highlights the deepening tensions between Washington and Tehran. The situation remains fluid, with conflicting reports and a lack of independent verification of Iran’s claims.