Over 17,500 Americans Returned from Middle East Amid Escalating Tensions
US Department of State, Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson said that over 8,500 US citizens returned on Tuesday alone, marking one of the largest single-day movements in recent weeks
Washington DC: The United States said that more than 17,500 American citizens have safely returned from the Middle East since February 28, as Washington intensified evacuation and assistance efforts amid rising security concerns in the region.
In a media note issued by the US Department of State, Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson said that over 8,500 US citizens returned on Tuesday alone, marking one of the largest single-day movements in recent weeks.
“Since February 28, over 17,500 American citizens have safely returned to the United States from the Middle East, with over 8,500 US citizens returning to the US yesterday alone,” the statement said on Wednesday.
It further noted that many more Americans have departed the Middle East for destinations in Europe and Asia, while others have left the conflict-hit region but remain in transit back to the United States.
The State Department said that through its 24/7 task force, it has assisted nearly 6,500 Americans abroad by offering security guidance and travel assistance. “The US State Department will continue to actively assist any American citizen abroad who wishes to depart the Middle East, to do so,” the statement added.
Americans in the Middle East requiring assistance have been advised to contact the department’s 24/7 helpline. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said in a post on X that the department is working round the clock to identify, communicate, and facilitate options for American citizens to depart the region.
The department also announced the activation of a State Department-led interagency task force, deploying additional personnel and resources to provide safety information and consular support through relevant embassies as quickly as possible.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio advised American citizens in the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Israel to fill out an online crisis intake form to receive departure assistance information about available aviation and ground transportation options.
The State Department reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of American citizens overseas and said it would continue close coordination with embassies and interagency partners amid ongoing regional instability.
Meanwhile, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the US Air Force continues to carry out a high volume of airstrikes into Iran, stating that American forces are dominating the skies.
The conflict in the Middle East has entered its sixth day following the February 28 US and Israeli strikes on Iran that reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other key figures. Tehran has responded with counter-strikes targeting American military bases and Israeli assets across the region.