More than 43,000 U.S. citizens have returned to the nation after being in the Middle East in the middle of the ongoing conflict with Iran.
According to a statement from Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs Dylan Johnson, more than two dozen charter flights have safely evacuated thousands of Americans. “While commercial flight availability across the region continues to improve, Department of State charter flights and ground transport operations continue to operate,” Johnson said.
“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,” he continued. “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.”
Some Americans declined assistance and chose to either remain in the Middle East or book “more convenient commercial flight options.”
An alert from the U.S. Virtual Embassy in Iran stated that Americans leaving the area may do so at the Armenian land border at Agarak and Nordu, use Turkish land border crossings, or cross through Turkmenistan.
“If you do not depart Iran, we recommend all Americans in Iran shelter in place until further notice,” the notice urges. “To the extent possible, remain in your residence, hotel, or another structure, and stay away from windows.”
“U.S. nationals are at significant risk of questioning, arrest, and detention in Iran,” the alert warned. “Showing a U.S. passport or demonstrating connections to the United States can be reason enough for Iranian authorities to detain someone. U.S. citizens who do not have a valid U.S. passport in their possession should apply for one at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate after departing Iran.”
