The U.S. State Department has urged Americans in the Middle East to leave the region immediately due to escalating conflict and widespread airspace closures disrupting travel. Over the past several days, more than 9,000 Americans have been evacuated, including roughly 300 from Israel, according to the department.
Airspace Closures and Flight Disruptions Hamper Evacuations
Following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai International Airport. The UAE responded by closing its airspace, causing repeated flight cancellations and stranding many Americans. Emirates airspace reopened intermittently for limited flights, but most travel plans remained severely affected.
Americans such as Shanice Day, who was visiting Dubai, found themselves trapped as return flights were canceled. She and others have had to seek alternative routes to return home, with Day eventually flying to Houston, Texas, via Australia.
Americans in Israel Confront Closed Airspace Amid Conflict
In Israel, where the threat of conflict is persistent, many Americans faced similar challenges. Jenna Fonberg and Jetlyn Toledo arrived at Ben Gurion Airport one day before the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran. As Israeli airspace closed completely at the start of the conflict, departure options drastically narrowed.
The two stayed with Fonberg’s brother, Blake, who experienced loss during a previous 2025 Iran conflict. The group sheltered through missile alerts and relied on military assurances, though evacuation opportunities remained limited. Instead of traveling overland to neighboring countries with open airspace, they chose to stay in place amid ongoing uncertainty.
State Department Response and Evacuation Efforts
The State Department has employed specialized aircraft and coordinated with regional partners to facilitate American evacuations despite volatile conditions. Over 9,000 Americans have been repatriated from the region so far, highlighting the ongoing logistical challenges posed by closures and attacks.
Officials continue to advise Americans to depart the Middle East promptly, citing increasing risks and constrained travel options, as diplomatic missions remain closed or limited in affected countries.
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