'USS Lincoln was not hit': US debunks Iran's strike claim, says missiles 'didn't even come close'

TAMPA, FLORIDA: US Central Command (CENTCOM) issued a sharp rebuttal on Sunday, March 1, to Iranian military claims, labeling the reported strike on an American aircraft carrier a "LIE."

The Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had earlier asserted that the USS Abraham Lincoln was "struck" by ballistic missiles in the Persian Gulf.

CENTCOM officials stated that the missiles launched by the IRGC did not come close to the nuclear-powered vessel.

While dismissing these claims, the military command simultaneously confirmed the first American casualties of the conflict, reporting three service members killed in action and five others seriously wounded.

USS Abraham Lincoln remains fully operational

According to CENTCOM, the USS Abraham Lincoln was not hit and remained fully operational.

The military command shared footage of the carrier continuing to launch aircraft in support of what it described as a "relentless campaign" to eliminate threats from the Iranian regime.

The mission, aimed at defending the American people, remained the priority for the carrier strike group currently deployed in the region.

Officials categorized the Iranian reports as a total fabrication intended to project a success that did not occur on the battlefield.

First American fatalities in 'Operation Epic Fury'

While the carrier remained safe, CENTCOM confirmed the first US combat deaths since the joint US-Israeli attack on Iran began on Saturday.

"Three US service members have been killed in action and five were seriously wounded as part of Operation Epic Fury," the command announced in a social media update.

The military noted that several other personnel sustained minor shrapnel injuries and concussions, but were currently in the process of returning to duty.

Major combat operations are ongoing as the response effort continues to develop in the region.

CENTCOM calls situation ‘fluid’ and limits casualty details

CENTCOM described the current situation as "fluid" and requested respect for the families of the fallen and wounded.

Officials stated they will withhold additional information, including the identities of the deceased warriors, until 24 hours after the next of kin have been notified.

No additional information on the specific nature or location of the casualties was provided. The US military remains in a state of high alert as it continues to counter Iranian aggression and misinformation during the active operation.