U.S. Department of State
03/10/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/10/2026 09:51
Statement from Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson on Successful Operations to Assist American Citizens in the Middle East
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Statement from Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson on Successful Operations to Assist American Citizens in the Middle East
Over 40,000 American citizens have safely returned to the United States from the Middle East since February 28.
Under President Trump and Secretary Rubio's leadership, the Department of State has completed over two dozen charter flights and has safely evacuated thousands of Americas from the Middle East. While commercial flight availability across the region continues to improve, Department of State charter flights and ground transport operations continue to operate.
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. Despite having made these options available to every American who has requested travel assistance, State Department charter flights continue to operate with less than 40% occupancy on average.
Most Americans who have requested assistance have declined assistance when offered, opting either to remain in country or book more convenient commercial flight options.
Through the State Department's 24/7 Task Force, we have directly assisted over 27,000 Americans abroad, offering security guidance and travel assistance.
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.
U.S. Department of State published this content on March 10, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on March 10, 2026 at 15:51 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]