The senior State Department official continued to urge Americans to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages from embassies in the region, and said those who needed assistance could call the 24/7 task force hotline at +1-202-501-4444. Until at least Tuesday afternoon, callers were advised in a recorded message, “please do not rely on the US government for assisted departure or evacuation at this time.” It urged Americans to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for updates and said, “in the event of ongoing military action, Americans should shelter in place until it is safe to move about freely.” The recorded message was updated by Wednesday morning, saying, “The US is committed to helping US citizens who want to leave the region to do so.” It said callers should stay on the line for assistance with travel from the region.
Author: Jennifer Hansler, Kylie Atwood
Published at: 2026-03-03 23:05:38
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