FAQ: Information for U.S. Citizens in the Middle East

Capitol
March 2, 2026
Blog Post

The Office of Congresswoman Shontel Brown has been in contact with the U.S. Department of State since U.S. military action against Iran began on February 28. 

This FAQ provides up-to-date guidance from the Department of State for American citizens in the Middle East, including embassy status, travel advisories, evacuation procedures, emergency assistance, and available consular support. 

It outlines practical steps U.S. citizens should take to stay informed and safe, and explains how to access official updates and resources during evolving security conditions.

For Congresswoman Brown’s official statement on the U.S. strikes on Iran, click here. 

*Updated March 2, 2026

 

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

 

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

  • The U.S. Embassies in Beirut, Lebanon and Israel are currently at departure status, meaning authorized departures of certain personnel have been approved.
  • No U.S. embassies are fully closed at this time.
  • Some embassies may have limited or canceled consular services.
  • Individuals with scheduled appointments would have received direct notification if impacted.

2. Are there any travel advisories?

3. 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. Department of State's Whatsapp Channel for - Security Updates for U.S. Citizens
  • In Israel, U.S. citizens are advised to shelter in place and follow local authorities’ guidance.
  • Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at travel.state.gov to receive real-time embassy updates.
  • Stay in close contact with airlines if flights are canceled or delayed.

4. Is the U.S. evacuating American citizens?

  • The U.S. government always maintains contingency plans.
  • There is no new evacuation announcement at this time.
  • If assisted departures are offered:
    • They move citizens from danger to safety (not necessarily directly to the United States).
    • U.S. citizens are typically required to reimburse the government for transportation costs.

5. What if I need emergency help or medical care?

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

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

A 24/7 task force has been established to coordinate response and answer U.S. citizen inquiries.

6. What about Americans traveling with non-U.S. family members?

  • U.S. government assistance primarily supports U.S. citizens.
  • In some cases, accompanying family members may be assisted depending on the country and circumstances.
  • Non-U.S. citizens should contact their home country’s consulate for guidance.

7. What if someone does not have a valid passport?

  • Emergency passport appointments may be available.
  • Embassy staffing and local security conditions may affect availability.
  • Individuals should contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate immediately.

8. Are there communication challenges?

  • Internet access in Iran has been severely restricted in recent weeks.
  • Messaging platforms such as WhatsApp may function intermittently.
  • For more updates follow the Department of State's WhatsApp channel.
  • Iran is currently the only location with significant internet disruption reported.

9. Are there any reported casualties?

  • At this time, there are no reported casualties among U.S. citizens or embassy personnel.

10. Where can I get official updates?

Visit travel.state.gov and enroll in STEP for direct embassy notifications.

11. How Can Congresswoman Brown’s Office Assist?

If you are a constituent of Ohio’s 11th Congressional District and need assistance with a State Department matter — including passport issues, emergency medical situations, evacuation concerns, or difficulty receiving responses — our office may be able to advocate on your behalf.

Due to the Privacy Act of 1974, 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 or other federal agencies regarding your case.

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
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship (if available)
  • A brief description of the issue

Once your signed privacy release form is received, our team can formally initiate an inquiry and advocate for timely updates or resolution.

For immediate life-threatening emergencies, please contact local emergency services and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate first.

If you have additional questions you can contact our office at 216-522-4900.  

Issues:Foreign Affairs