Statement From Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson on Successful Operations to Assist American Citizens in the Middle East

Since February 28, over 32,000 American citizens have safely returned to the United States from the Middle East.

These figures do not include the many Americans who have safely relocated to other countries or those who have departed the Middle East but are still in transit back to the United States.

The Department of State has completed nearly two dozen charter flights and has safely evacuated thousands of Americans from the Middle East.

While commercial flight availability across the region continues to improve, Department of State charter flight and ground transport operations continue to ramp up, as security conditions allow.

At this time, more than half of American citizens who requested help departing turn down U.S. Government-provided transportation options when contacted. Some American citizens wish to remain in country, while others prefer an alternative departure option.

Through the State Department’s 24/7 Task Force, we have directly assisted over 19,000 Americans abroad, offering security guidance and travel assistance.

American citizens in Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel in need of travel assistance should complete the 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 assistance can call the U.S. Department of State, 24/7, at +1-202-501-4444.