Today (October 24, 2023), we’re sharing crucial advice directly from the Department of State to help Americans in the Middle East stay safe and informed during challenging times. The Passport Office wants to emphasize that we’re not creating this advice; we’re presenting the information directly from the travel advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State. We aim to ensure everyone is secure and safe with the information necessary to move through the world.
Global Caution:
In brief, the Department of State, the U.S. government’s agency responsible for international affairs, advises everyone to be more cautious. This is because tensions have risen in many parts of the world, and there’s worry about possible terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violence that might affect U.S. citizens and their interests.
Stay Alert and Get Ready:
If you’re in places where tourists go, it’s essential to be watchful. Not only should Americans in the Middle East sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP, but any American should. It’s also important to monitor the Department of State’s official website and social media for updates.
About the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP):
STEP is a free service offered by the U.S. Department of State for U.S. citizens traveling or living in another country. It lets U.S. citizens tell the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate about their trip. Additionally, enrolling in STEP helps travelers by:
- Getting important safety updates from the Embassy about their destination.
- Making it easier for the U.S. government to reach them during an emergency, like a natural disaster or civil unrest.
- Helping family and friends at home contact them during an emergency.
For U.S. Citizens in Israel & the West Bank:
If you want to leave with help from the U.S. government, it’s time to take action. Fill out a crisis form to say you want to leave. Commercial flights are limited, but the government has special flights. Keep an eye out for when they’ll happen. If it’s safe, you can also leave by going overland into Jordan through certain border crossings.
For U.S. Citizens in Gaza:
Leaving Gaza is challenging because there’s a conflict between Israel and Hamas. All Americans trying to leave the Middle East should consider filling out a crisis intake form. The form will help the United States government reach you quickly. If it’s safe, consider moving closer to the Rafah border crossing. It might open suddenly for a short time.
For U.S. Citizens in Lebanon:
With the situation changing, it’s a good idea to make plans to leave while you can still find commercial flights. However, if you decide to stay, have a backup emergency plan. If you haven’t already, complete the crisis intake form to give your contact information.
For U.S. Citizens in Iraq:
In Iraq, keep up with local news for updates and avoid protests and big gatherings. Suddenly, protests might turn violent because of what’s happening in Gaza.
Status of U.S. Mission Operations:
Some U.S. missions in Israel, Lebanon, and Iraq allow family members and non-emergency staff to leave because of safety concerns.
Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know
- Global tensions have risen, prompting a caution from the U.S. Department of State. Exercise vigilance.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for vital alerts while abroad.
- Stay informed through the Department of State’s website and social media for real-time updates.
- Options for leaving Israel, the West Bank, and also Gaza include charter flights and overland crossings to Jordan.
- U.S. citizens in Lebanon and Iraq should consider departure plans or emergency contingencies.
- Some U.S. missions allow family members to leave due to heightened security threats.
Ensuring Your Safety – Our Commitment to Keeping You Informed
In conclusion, The Passport Office is dedicated to your safety and well-being. As a result, we’re committed to providing you with the most up-to-date information from the U.S. Department of State regarding travel advisories. We understand the importance of staying informed during uncertain times.
For your convenience, here is the contact information to ensure you can reach out to the U.S. Department of State promptly.
Contact Information For U.S. Citizens Worldwide
- They encourage you to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive essential security updates.
For U.S. Citizens in Israel, Lebanon, the West Bank, and Gaza:
- If you seek their assistance, please fill out the crisis intake form. As a rule, avoid submitting duplicate requests, as they may delay their response.
For U.S. Citizens in Lebanon:
- Reach the U.S. Embassy’s American Citizens Services unit by email.
For U.S. Citizens in Iraq:
- Contact the U.S. Embassy’s American Citizens Services unit by email.
Reach Them by Phone:
- U.S. Department of State – Consular Affairs: Call 1-833-890-9595 (toll-free) and +1-606-641-0131.
- U.S. citizens in Israel: Dial the local number at 03-519-7426.
- Lebanon: Use the local number 961-4-543 600.
- Iraq: Reach them at the local number 0760-030-4400.
Above all, your safety and well-being is paramount. Stay safe and informed, and remember, we are here to support you during these challenging times. We’re also here to answer any questions you may have. Safe Travels.
