The USS Gerald R. Ford, a US Navy aircraft carrier, is anticipated to depart from the West Asia region shortly, according to a report by CBS News. This decision follows an extended deployment of 309 days, the longest for a modern US aircraft carrier, which has raised concerns about the ship's condition, including incidents such as a laundry room fire that injured sailors. The Ford is one of three carriers in the region, with the other two being the USS George H.W. Bush and the USS Abraham Lincoln, which are enforcing a blockade against Iranian oil exports. Despite the carrier's departure, US President Donald Trump has indicated a continued commitment to the blockade and is reportedly considering further military actions against Iran, as negotiations remain stalled. The carrier's return will provide relief to approximately 4,500 sailors who have been deployed for over ten months. Upon its arrival in Virginia, the Ford will undergo necessary repairs and maintenance to address the wear and tear from its extended mission.