Since February 28, nearly 24,000 American citizens have returned safely to the United States from the Middle East, according to a statement released by Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson. This number does not include Americans who have relocated to other countries or those still traveling back to the United States.
The Department of State continues efforts to contact American citizens in the region and offer assistance with charter flights or ground transportation. "Several flights have safely returned hundreds of Americans to the United States with additional flights scheduled to take place over the coming days, as security conditions allow," said Johnson.
Commercial flight options in most parts of the Middle East are becoming more available. U.S. citizens in Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel who need help are encouraged to fill out the Crisis Intake Form. Completing this form will provide them with information about upcoming charter flights and ground transport.
Through its 24/7 Task Force, the State Department has directly assisted nearly 13,000 Americans abroad by providing security guidance and travel support. Johnson stated: "The State Department will continue to actively assist any American citizen who wishes to depart the Middle East, to do so."
Americans needing assistance can contact the U.S. Department of State at +1-202-501-4444 at any time.
