U.S. State Department Under Fire for Delayed Evacuation Warnings in Middle East Tensions

U.S. lawmakers criticized the State Department for belatedly urging Americans to evacuate following the U.S.-Israeli air war with Iran. The delay and lack of plans left Americans stranded amid flight disruptions. Lawmakers highlighted the incompetence of the response, calling for improved evacuation strategies.

Criticism is mounting against the U.S. State Department after its delayed advice for Americans in the Middle East to evacuate amid the escalating U.S.-Israeli air conflict with Iran. The directive came three days after the conflict began, drawing fire from lawmakers for its inadequate planning and execution.

The chaotic scenario left thousands of Americans stranded as air routes closed and commercial flights were abruptly halted. Former Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene and Democratic Senator Andy Kim were among those condemning the department's actions. Meanwhile, rising tensions have sent shockwaves through global energy supplies and aviation industries.

Lawmakers are demanding immediate action, with some calling for evacuation flights to rescue stranded citizens. As the Trump administration faces increasing scrutiny for its handling of the crisis, security alerts continue to be issued across the Middle East without clear evacuation plans in place.

(With inputs from agencies.)