WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) released the following update regarding resources available to Americans stranded in the Middle East:

“To Americans struggling to get home: we are doing everything we can to push for more resources to assist you. In the meantime, in accordance with current State Department guidance, we recommend that you shelter in place, immediately enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), complete the Department’s crisis intake form to request an assisted departure, call the Department’s assistance hotline, and continue to monitor commercial and charter flight opportunities closely.”

More information regarding the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)—a free service that allows the State Department to accurately and quickly contact Americans abroad in case of an emergency—is available here. The crisis intake form to request an assisted departure is available here. The Department’s 24/7 assistance hotline can be reached by calling +1-202-501-4444 from abroad and +1-888-407-4747 from the United States and Canada.

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