I condemn the violent attack by the terrorist organization Hamas on the Jewish people and the State of Israel in the strongest possible terms. Click here to read my full statement. My office stands ready to assist U.S. citizens and their families during the ongoing conflict in Israel. If you or a loved one need assistance, please review the resources below. For additional support, please contact my office.
Evacuation Flights:
Ben Gurion International Airport is still operating international flights. U.S. citizens may book commercial flights, at their own expense, to leave Israel.
Starting Friday, October 13, the U.S. State Department will arrange charter flights to nearby countries to assist U.S. citizens and their immediate family members who have been unable to book commercial transit and seek a safe means of departing Israel. Individuals will be able to make their own onward travel arrangements to the destination of their choice afterwards. By taking a U.S. government coordinated transport, evacuees are obligated to repay the cost of their transportation after the fact.
U.S. citizens who would like to take a charter flight should complete the State Department’s crisis intake form to receive flight information. Those seeking to be in touch with the U.S. Embassy in Israel can fill out this form or call 1-833-890-9595 or 1-606-641-0131.
The State Department will evaluate the demand from U.S. citizens for assistance in departing Israel on a real-time basis but expect these initial travel options to facilitate the safe departure of thousands of U.S. citizens per week. The overall security situation, availability and reliability of commercial transportation, and U.S. citizen demand will all influence the duration of this departure assistance.
U.S. citizens in Israel should enroll in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for ongoing updates. The latest security alerts can be viewed here.
Residents of the 1st Congressional District of Maine can contact me for assistance in dealing with Federal agencies. In order to better serve you, this form will generate a printable page that you should sign and mail to my office.
Authorization Form
* indicates information that you need to provide.
In accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974, I give Congresswoman Chellie Pingree authority to act on my behalf.
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