Washington, October 18: A US State Department spokesperson has said that approximately 1,000 US citizens and their family members have left Israel on government-chartered transport. The initiative began on October 13, offering more than 4,000 seats on flights and ships chartered by the US government to US citizens and their immediate families.
In particular, the spokesperson noted that the departure options provided typically operated at less than half their capacity. These flights, facilitated by the US government, are expected to continue departing from Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport until at least Thursday. The spokesperson emphasized that the duration of this departure assistance will depend on factors such as the overall security situation, the availability and reliability of commercial transportation, and the demand of US citizens.
Additionally, the spokesperson urged U.S. citizens who wish to leave Israel to take advantage of available departure assistance. More than 3,000 US citizens have reportedly left Israel and the West Bank via commercial air travel, land borders or other means, according to the spokesperson.
However, some Americans in Gaza have faced challenges entering Egypt through the Rafah crossing, despite indications from US officials that it could be opened. The US Embassy in Cairo is monitoring 253 US citizens and 153 concerned family members who are seeking assistance to depart Gaza through the Rafah crossing.
The spokesperson advised U.S. citizens in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank who need assistance to complete a crisis entry form at Travel.state.gov, and assured that updates on departure assistance and information will be provided as they become available. Will be done.