FAQ: Evacuation Assistance for RIers in the Middle East

On Monday, March 2, the U.S. State Department advised any American currently in the following countries to depart immediately: Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, the occupied West Bank and Gaza, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

U.S. Senator Jack Reed is urging Rhode Islanders to heed the State Department’s directive and depart the region as quickly and safely as possible and is actively working to assist Rhode Islanders who need assistance.

This page provides up-to-date guidance from the U.S. Department of State for American citizens in the Middle East and outlines practical steps citizens should take to stay informed, stay safe, and how to access official updates and resources during evolving security conditions.

UPDATED: March 3, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions: U.S. State Department Guidance for Americans in the Middle East

Where can I get official updates?

Visit www.mytravel.state.gov and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Monitor security updates from the State Department via its WhatsApp channel and official social media accounts.

Americans in the Middle East may contact the State Department 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-202-501-4444 for those abroad and 1-888-407-4747 for those in the US or Canada.

What is the current status of U.S. Embassies in the region?

The U.S. Embassies in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Lebanon are currently closed as of March 3, 2026.

The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem issued a statement saying it was unable to offer assistance to Americans trying to leave.

Are there any travel advisories?

U.S. citizens traveling abroad in the Middle East should monitor travel.state.gov for the latest official guidance.

The U.S. State Department urged U.S. citizens to follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

What should U.S. citizens in the region do right now?

For safety and security updates for U.S. citizens traveling or residing abroad, follow the U.S. State Department's WhatsApp Channel - Security Updates for U.S. Citizens.

Immediately register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time embassy updates.

Stay in close contact with airlines if flights are canceled or delayed.

What if I need emergency help or medical care?

The U.S. State Department can provide information about nearby operational hospitals and available services. Conditions vary by country.

If you or a loved one needs urgent assistance, be prepared to provide:

Full legal name
Date of birth
Current location
Contact information
Proof of U.S. citizenship

Americans in the Middle East may contact the State Department 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-202-501-4444 for those abroad and 1-888-407-4747 for those in the US or Canada.

Sen. Reed's Office Stands Ready to Help

Senator Reed says Rhode Islanders needing information and assistance may contact his office by calling (401) 943-3100 or by visiting: www.reed.senate.gov/contact/assistance

To help us act quickly, please be prepared to provide:

Full legal name (as it appears on your passport)
Date of birth
Current location
Contact information
Copy of U.S. Passport/Passport #
A brief description of the issue

According to the law, federal agencies cannot share case-specific information with our office without your written consent. To request assistance, you must complete a Congressional Privacy Release Form, which authorizes us to contact the State Department regarding your case.