By Amr Gohar
The U.S. Department of State announced Thursday that nearly 20,000 American citizens have safely returned to the United States from the Middle East since February 28, as Washington expands evacuation and assistance efforts amid rising regional tensions.
According to a media note released by the State Department’s Office of the Spokesperson, Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson said the number reflects only those who have already returned to the United States and does not include Americans who have relocated to other countries or those currently in transit back to the U.S.
At the direction of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the department has launched charter flight and ground transportation operations to help American citizens leave the region. Officials said the evacuation program is being expanded, with additional flights and transportation routes continuing throughout the day.
The State Department has also created a Crisis Intake Form for Americans currently in Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel, allowing citizens in those countries to receive direct updates about upcoming evacuation flights and ground transport options.
Officials said the department’s 24-hour Task Force has already assisted more than 10,000 Americans abroad, providing security guidance, travel coordination, and emergency support.
The State Department emphasized that it will continue assisting any American citizen who wishes to depart the Middle East, urging those in need of help to contact its emergency line available around the clock.
Americans seeking assistance can call the U.S. Department of State 24/7 at +1-202-501-4444.
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