Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: More than 40,000 American citizens have safely returned to the United States from the Middle East since late February, the State Department said on March 10, as Washington continues evacuation and travel-assistance operations across the region amid the expanding conflict with Iran.
Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson said the effort has involved dozens of charter flights and ground transport operations organized by the US government. He said the evacuations were carried out under the direction of President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The State Department said commercial air travel across the region is gradually improving, allowing many Americans to leave on regular flights. But US charter operations remain available for those needing assistance.
Despite the ongoing evacuation program, officials said demand for government flights has been lower than expected.
According to the State Department, many US citizens have declined government travel assistance after requesting help. “Most Americans have opted either to remain in the country or book more convenient commercial flight options,” Johnson said.
Logistical support
In addition to transportation, the department said it has provided guidance and logistical support to thousands of Americans across the region. “Through the State Department’s 24/7 Task Force, we have directly assisted over 27,000 Americans abroad, offering security guidance and travel assistance,” Johnson said.
Officials also issued contact information for Americans seeking help. The US citizens in Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel who need help leaving the region have been advised to complete its crisis intake form.
