WASHINGTON — Thousands of American citizens are currently stranded in the Middle East after the U.S. and Israeli military campaign against Iran began, while many continue to call for government support to leave the region. According to the U.S. State Department, about 17,500 American citizens have returned to the U.S. from the Middle East since the conflict broke out, with over 8,500 leaving the region just yesterday. Additionally, the government stated it has assisted 6,500 Americans abroad through security guidance and other support measures. However, at least 1,500 U.S. citizens have requested evacuation assistance, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, amidst the ongoing devastating U.S. military campaign in Iran.

Plane turns back mid-air over Iranian airspace

One of those stranded is Soups Ranjan, CEO of tech company Sardine. He was on a flight from Dubai back to the U.S. when the plane had to turn back as missile systems began flying through the area. Ranjan recalled: “We were flying over Iranian airspace at the time. Fortunately, the pilot remained calm and reassured everyone.” After his flight was canceled, he booked a series of other flights, but all were canceled due to several countries closing their airspace.

U.S. government seeks to provide support

Secretary Rubio stated that the government is identifying military, commercial, and charter flights to help U.S. citizens leave the region following U.S. and Israeli airstrikes. Airlines are also being asked to deploy larger aircraft with more seats to increase passenger capacity. However, some flights en route to the region had to turn back after airspace was closed.

Americans call for assistance

Many Americans in the Middle East have contacted members of Congress and the State Department seeking ways to leave. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (Virginia) sent a letter to Secretary Rubio requesting clarification on the evacuation plan for U.S. citizens. The State Department also advised U.S. citizens to leave the region immediately using available commercial flights and to register their location with the government for assistance. The list of countries warned for departure includes: Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, West Bank, Gaza, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. While waiting for flights to leave the region, many American citizens described the situation as “a game of chance” as they repeatedly booked different flights in hopes that one would take off.

Read more