Washington, March 6 (NationPress) Approximately 24,000 American nationals have successfully returned to the United States from the Middle East since late February, as reported by the U.S. State Department on Friday. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts by Washington to facilitate the safe exit of Americans amid rising security issues.

Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson indicated that this figure only pertains to those who have already made it back to the U.S. and does not include Americans who have moved to other countries or are still on their way home.

“Since the 28th of February, nearly 24,000 American citizens have safely returned to the U.S. from the Middle East,” Johnson stated. The State Department continues its outreach to U.S. citizens in the region, providing transportation support, which includes charter flights and ground travel assistance.

“Our department is actively reaching out to American citizens to offer charter flight or ground transport assistance,” Johnson said.

Several charter flights have already facilitated the return of hundreds of Americans to the United States, with additional flights anticipated in the coming days, contingent on the security situation.

“Multiple flights have successfully brought hundreds of Americans back to the U.S., with more scheduled as security conditions permit,” a statement from the department noted.

Additionally, officials highlighted that commercial travel options across much of the Middle East are progressively becoming more accessible. “The availability of commercial flights throughout the region is improving, with options now accessible in most areas,” Johnson remarked.

The State Department has urged Americans still in the region who need support to register through an emergency system to receive updates regarding available transportation.

American citizens currently in Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel needing travel support are encouraged to fill out a Crisis Intake Form. The department's 24-hour crisis response team has been tirelessly working to assist Americans throughout the region.

“Through our 24/7 Task Force, we have directly supported nearly 13,000 Americans overseas, providing security advice and travel assistance,” Johnson stated.

Officials reiterated that Washington will persist in aiding Americans wishing to leave the Middle East. “The State Department will continue to actively assist any American citizen who desires to depart from the Middle East,” Johnson concluded.

Those requiring help can reach out to the State Department at any time through its emergency hotline. “Americans in the Middle East who need support can call the U.S. Department of State, available 24/7, at +1-202-501-4444,” the statement concluded.