Following the recent escalation of tensions between Israel and Iran, the U.S. State Department has provided safety guidance to over 25,000 individuals in Israel, the West Bank, and Iran. The assistance includes updates on how to stay safe amid the conflict and information on evacuation procedures. Officials have not disclosed the breakdown of how many of these individuals are U.S. citizens, though the department has formed a task force to assist Americans looking to evacuate the region.
During a press briefing on Friday, State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce declined to provide detailed information on the demographics of those receiving assistance. The agency emphasized that it continues to support individuals seeking guidance on how to navigate the ongoing crisis. However, Bruce also mentioned that the U.S. will not directly transport American citizens from Iran, stating that they must first secure their own exit before seeking governmental help.
The situation has prompted various diplomatic efforts, including the formation of evacuation flights and cruise ship departures for American citizens stuck in Israel. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee announced that the embassy in Jerusalem is actively working on these evacuation plans. Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem clarified in a separate statement that there was no official announcement about assisting private citizens to depart at this time. However, it acknowledged the department’s ongoing preparations to assist U.S. citizens in crisis areas.
So far, the U.S. has not engaged in a large-scale evacuation operation for Americans in Israel, though efforts are underway. According to ABC News, the military assisted in flying some American diplomats and family members from the U.S. Embassy in Israel. Additionally, private flights for American citizens have begun landing in Florida after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dispatched four planes to rescue U.S. citizens stranded in Israel during the ongoing violence. Other private evacuation options are also available for those seeking to leave the region.
On Monday, the State Department raised its travel warning for Israel to the highest level possible, reflecting the severity of the situation. This move underscores the agency’s commitment to ensuring the safety of U.S. citizens and others in the area.