More than 40,000 American citizens have safely returned to the United States from the Middle East since late February, the U.S. State Department announced Tuesday. The evacuations are part of an ongoing effort by the government to assist Americans affected by the escalating conflict with Iran in the region.

Evacuation Efforts Expand

Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson said the operation has involved dozens of charter flights and ground transport operations organized by the U.S. government. ‘Over 40,000 American citizens have safely returned to the United States from the Middle East since February 28,’ Johnson said in a statement.

Johnson added that the evacuations were carried out under the direction of President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. ‘Under President Trump and Secretary Rubio’s leadership, the Department of State has completed over two dozen charter flights and has safely evacuated thousands of Americans from the Middle East,’ he said.

Commercial Flights Improve, But Demand Low

The State Department noted that commercial air travel across the region is gradually improving, allowing many Americans to leave on regular flights. However, U.S. charter operations remain available for those needing assistance.

‘While commercial flight availability across the region continues to improve, Department of State charter flights and ground transport operations continue to operate,’ Johnson said.

Despite the ongoing evacuation program, officials said demand for government flights has been lower than expected. ‘At this time, seats available on the Department’s charter options are significantly greater than the demand from Americans in the region,’ Johnson stated.

According to the State Department, many U.S. citizens have declined government travel assistance after requesting help. ‘Most Americans who have requested assistance have declined assistance when offered, opting either to remain in the country or book more convenient commercial flight options,’ Johnson said.

Officials said charter flights have been operating with low occupancy. ‘Despite having made these options available to every American who has requested travel assistance, State Department charter flights continue to operate with less than 40% occupancy on average,’ Johnson said.

Logistical Support and Security Guidance

In addition to transportation, the department said it has provided guidance and logistical support to thousands of Americans across the region. ‘Through the State Department’s 24/7 Task Force, we have directly assisted over 27,000 Americans abroad, offering security guidance and travel assistance,’ Johnson said.

The State Department said assistance operations remain active as the conflict and security situation evolve. ‘The State Department will continue to actively assist any American citizen who wishes to depart the Middle East, to do so,’ Johnson said.

Officials also issued contact information for Americans seeking help. Those in need of assistance can reach out through the State Department’s travel advisory hotline or website, which provides real-time updates on the situation and available resources.

With the situation in the Middle East remaining volatile, the return of over 40,000 Americans marks a significant step in the U.S. government’s response to the crisis. However, the relatively low demand for charter flights suggests that many Americans have found alternative means of departure or are choosing to remain in the region for the time being.

As the conflict with Iran continues to evolve, the State Department remains committed to supporting American citizens abroad. ‘Our focus is on ensuring the safety and security of all Americans, regardless of their location,’ Johnson said in a recent briefing.