THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
As the United States' and Israel's conflict with Iran continues, here is a round up of the US government’s announcements about how the war may affect US citizens living or traveling abroad, and the measures they are taking to aid overseas Americans.
Following the launch of US combat operations in Iran, Americans worldwide and especially in the Middle East should follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest US embassy or consulate. They may experience travel disruptions due to periodic airspace closures. The Department of State advises Americans worldwide to exercise increased caution.
Following the start of Operation Epic Fury, Secretary of State Marco Rubio released a video message emphasizing that the safety and security of American citizens is the Department of State’s highest priority. He said: “At my direction, the Department has activated a 24/7 task force that is providing American citizens with up-to-the-minute safety and security information. Here is how you can stay abreast of the latest updates, as well as ways we are working around the clock to help you stay safe in the wake of Iran’s cowardly attacks.”
The following is a summary of State’s advice.
Enroll in the State Department’s STEP Program (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) at https://step.state.gov to receive the latest security updates.
Follow the “US Department of State – Security Updates for US Citizens” channel on WhatsApp.
When planning travel, read carefully our Travel Advisory, country information, and any recent alerts at https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel.html
There is a phone number for Americans who need assistance. According to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Americans in the Middle East may contact the Department of State 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 24/7 at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) and +1-888-407-4747 (from the US and Canada)
Local Emergency Information and Contacts can be found at the US embassy website in your current location.
Many embassies have an alerts page for US citizens. In the UK you can read these at https://uk.usembassy.gov/category/alert/
The Department says it is facilitating charter flights from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan for American citizens, and will continue to secure additional capacity as security conditions allow. Commercial aviation options remain available in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, and Egypt, and the Department is actively helping American citizens book those tickets. For those in countries lacking commercial aviation availability, the Department is facilitating travel to third countries as conditions allow. That includes increasing ground transportation options for American citizens wishing to leave Israel. The Department will also waive any statutory requirement for American citizens to reimburse the government for travel expenses.
