‘Hit from 17 angles, had to run for our lives…’: Trump reveals how Iran targeted USS Gerald Ford
US President Donald Trump has made a striking claim, alleging that Iran launched ballistic missiles at the USS Gerald R. Ford, widely regarded as the world’s largest aircraft carrier. According to Trump, the attack came from 17 different angles, forcing American personnel to scramble for safety. His statement suggests that even one of the most advanced nuclear-powered carriers is not immune to threats.
Trump’s Controversial Statement Amid Ongoing Tensions
In a strongly worded remark, Trump said the attack left little room for escape. “Iran hit the world’s largest aircraft carrier from 17 angles. We had to run to save our lives—it was all over,” he claimed.
The statement comes at a time of heightened conflict involving Iran, with the United States and Israel reportedly conducting airstrikes on Iranian positions. Trump described the incident as a major setback for the US Navy and warned of Iran’s growing military capabilities. He added that missiles and drones surrounded the carrier from multiple directions, creating panic onboard.
🚨 Trump on USS Gerald R. Ford:
“Iran attacked from 17 directions. We fled to save our lives. It was all over.” pic.twitter.com/23WRH8ejxT
— Globe Observer (@_GlobeObserver) March 28, 2026
Pentagon Denies Any Missile Attack
However, the Pentagon has rejected these claims. US defense officials stated that no Iranian strike targeted the USS Gerald R. Ford. Instead, they reported a fire onboard the vessel, which began in the ship’s main laundry area.
According to officials, the blaze was likely caused by an electrical short circuit or mechanical fault. The fire reportedly lasted nearly 30 hours, disrupting normal operations. More than 600 sailors were forced to leave their sleeping quarters and rest in alternative spaces such as floors and tables.
Two crew members sustained minor injuries, while several others required treatment due to smoke exposure. The Pentagon emphasized that the incident was not linked to any combat situation and maintained that the carrier remains “fully mission capable.”
Warship Sent for Repairs in Greece
Following the incident, the USS Gerald R. Ford has been moved to Souda Bay in Crete, Greece, for repairs. The carrier had been operating in the Red Sea as part of Operation Epic Fury against Iran but has now been temporarily withdrawn from the region.
Experts believe that extended deployment, crew fatigue, and maintenance challenges may have impacted the vessel’s operational readiness. While the administration has downplayed the issue as minor, opposition leaders and several senators have raised concerns about naval preparedness.
The development highlights the mounting pressure on US military assets during the ongoing conflict with Iran. The temporary withdrawal of a $13 billion advanced warship from an active zone is being seen as a strategic challenge at a critical time.