Dothan, Ala. (WDNews) — More than 36,000 American citizens have safely returned to the United States from the Middle East since February 28, according to a statement released March 9 by Assistant Secretary of State Dylan Johnson.
Officials say the Department of State has coordinated more than two dozen charter flights to evacuate Americans from the region as part of ongoing assistance operations.
“Over 36,000 American citizens have safely returned to the United States from the Middle East since February 28.”
The statement says the operations have taken place under the leadership of President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, with charter flights and ground transportation continuing to operate while commercial flight options across the region improve.
“While commercial flight availability across the region continues to improve, Department of State charter flight and ground transport operations continue to operate.”
Officials say many Americans in the region have chosen to depart using commercial flights instead of charter options.
“At this time, seats available on the Department’s charter options are significantly greater than the demand from Americans in the region. Many Americans continue to depart on commercial options.”
According to the State Department, most Americans who requested assistance ultimately declined it when offered, choosing either to remain in the region or arrange their own travel.
“Most Americans who have requested assistance have declined assistance when offered, opting either to remain in country or book commercial flight options.”
The department’s 24/7 task force has also been working to assist Americans abroad by providing travel guidance and security information.
“Through the State Department’s 24/7 Task Force, we have directly assisted over 23,000 Americans abroad, offering security guidance and travel assistance.”
Officials said Americans currently in Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Israel who need travel assistance should complete the State Department’s Crisis Intake Form.
“The State Department will continue to actively assist any American citizen, who wishes to depart the Middle East, to do so.”
Americans in the Middle East who need immediate assistance can contact the U.S. Department of State 24 hours a day at +1-202-501-4444.
