The U.S. Department of State says more than 9,000 American citizens have returned to the United States from various Middle Eastern countries in recent days, as regional security concerns continue.
Among those returning are more than 300 Americans who departed from Israel. U.S. officials say charter flights have been arranged from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan to assist citizens seeking to leave the region.
Commercial flights remain available in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman and Egypt. The State Department says it is helping Americans secure seats on those flights where possible.
In countries where commercial aviation is limited or unavailable, U.S. authorities are facilitating travel to third countries. Ground transportation options have also been expanded for Americans wishing to leave Israel.
Officials report that nearly 3,000 calls have been received from American citizens across the Middle East requesting information or assistance.
The Department has stated that it will waive the usual requirement for citizens to reimburse the government for evacuation-related travel costs during this operation.
The U.S. government says it is continuing to monitor the situation and will adjust assistance efforts depending on security developments in the region.
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