Summary
The U.S. State Department has approved up to $40 million to fund evacuation flights for Americans in the Middle East due to transportation problems caused by the Iran war. These funds come from a budget typically used for emergencies involving U.S. diplomatic staff. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has waived the usual rule that private citizens must repay the government for evacuation costs.
Key Facts
- The State Department is using up to $40 million for evacuation flights in the Middle East.
- This money is from a fund usually set aside for diplomatic emergencies.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio waived the repayment requirement for private Americans.
- The U.S. advised Americans in 14 Middle Eastern countries to leave due to the Iran war.
- Criticism exists regarding the department's past performance in crisis situations.
- Over 40,000 Americans have returned home since the Iran war started in February.
- Most Americans returned via commercial flights, with only 40% opting for U.S. charters.
- The charter flights have many empty seats, with less than 40% occupancy on average.
