US launches charter flights to evacuate citizens from Middle East amid escalating conflict
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Washington: The United States has initiated charter flights to evacuate American citizens from the Middle East as tensions surge in the region.
A State Department charter flight carrying Americans departed the Middle East for the US on Wednesday, marking a key step in the ongoing operation.
“Today, a Department of State charter flight of American citizens departed the Middle East en route to the United States as part of our ongoing efforts to assist Americans’ return home,” the State Department said in a media note.
More flights are planned across the region, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel. Citizens are urged to register via the department's crisis intake system or contact its 24/7 emergency task force for charter flights or ground transport.
“The US Department of State is taking historic action to assist American citizens who wish to depart the Middle East, return to the United States,” the department added.
Since February 28, over 17,500 Americans have safely returned home, including more than 8,500 on Tuesday alone, Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson said. Many others have departed for Europe or Asia and remain in transit.
The 24/7 task force has aided nearly 6,500 citizens with security guidance and travel support. Hundreds of personnel are coordinating via commercial flights, charters, and ground options.
“Our top priority is moving Americans from danger to safety,” a senior official said. Operational details are limited for security reasons.
The US has conducted similar large-scale evacuations during past crises, such as the Iraq War and the 2006 Lebanon conflict.
(Inputs from IANS)