Fact Check: "No plans to assist US citizens' departure from Israel announced."
What We Know
The claim that there are "no plans to assist US citizens' departure from Israel" is inaccurate. Starting on October 13, 2023, the U.S. government announced that it would arrange charter flights to assist U.S. citizens and their immediate family members who have been unable to book commercial transit from Israel (Baldwin). This initiative is part of a broader effort by the U.S. Department of State to facilitate the safe departure of its citizens amid ongoing conflict in the region.
In a Travel Advisory issued on October 14, 2023, the Department of State confirmed that they began offering departure assistance to U.S. citizens who completed a crisis intake form (U.S. Embassy). The advisory noted that while commercial flights are limited, the U.S. government is actively working to provide options for citizens wishing to leave Israel, including chartered transportation to safe locations (U.S. Embassy).
Analysis
The claim lacks factual support and contradicts multiple official announcements. The U.S. government has clearly outlined its plans to assist citizens in departing Israel through charter flights, which began on October 13. This information is corroborated by various sources, including U.S. Senators and the U.S. Embassy in Israel (Baldwin, U.S. Embassy, Raskin).
The reliability of these sources is high, as they are official communications from government representatives and agencies. The U.S. Department of State is a credible authority on matters concerning U.S. citizens abroad, and their advisories are regularly updated to reflect the current situation. Additionally, the information provided in these advisories is consistent across multiple platforms, further reinforcing its credibility.
The assertion that there are no plans for assistance may stem from a misunderstanding or miscommunication regarding the nature and availability of the assistance being offered. However, the evidence clearly indicates that the U.S. government is taking steps to facilitate the departure of its citizens from Israel.
Conclusion
Verdict: False. The claim that there are "no plans to assist US citizens' departure from Israel" is incorrect. The U.S. government has actively announced and implemented plans to assist its citizens in leaving Israel, including arranging charter flights and providing necessary resources for safe travel.
Sources
- Guidance for Americans in Israel and Gaza - Tammy Baldwin
- Security Alert #8: Updated Travel Advisory October 14, 2023
- Help for My Constituents in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza
- Security Alert #9 - U.S. Embassy in Israel
- Guidance and Resources for American Citizens in Israel
- U.S. Government to Assist U.S. Citizens in Departing Israel
- Assisting and Evacuating U.S. Citizens Abroad During the ...
- Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza International ...
