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Resources and Support for U.S. Citizens Overseas
03/02/2026 08:05 PM EST
Following Operation Epic Fury, Secretary Rubio released a video message emphasizing that the safety and security of American citizens is the Department of State’s highest priority.
A courtesy transcript of the Secretary’s video is below:
“At my direction, the Department has activated a 24/7 task force that is providing American citizens with up-to-the-minute safety and security information.
Here is how you can stay abreast of the latest updates, as well as ways we are working around the clock to help you stay safe in the wake of Iran’s cowardly attacks:
All Americans located abroad, particularly those in the Middle East, should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov to receive the latest messages and updates from your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
U.S. citizens overseas are also encouraged to follow our “Security Updates for U.S. Citizens” channel on WhatsApp and to follow @TravelGov on social media. The latest alerts can be found at travel.state.gov as well.
Americans in the Middle East may contact the Department of State 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-202-501-4444.”
Get Travel Tips, courtesy of Claudette Travels
See additional links below
Real ID (for US citizens)
Starting May 7, 2025, US citizens will need a Passport or REAL ID to board domestic flights. Global Entry, NEXUS, and Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) are all acceptable forms of identification to fly domestically after May 7th. All three are considered REAL ID-compliant.
TSA - See if you're eligible to skip the long TSA line via TSA PreCheck Touchless ID
Visas to travel to Europe:
Pimsleur Language Program
May also be able to get the whole program for several languages for free a your local library in the US.
As someone who has studied 14 languages (I'm including Latin for classical singing) I can't recommend Pimsleur high enough. I've used Pimsleur to brush up on my French, Japanese, and Spanish, continue learning Greek, and am learning Farsi, Arabic, Swahili, and Brazilian Portuguese. Even with my new languages, I've successfully used what I've learned on my travels and with friends. You learn in usable phrases, which is an excellent way to learn! Enjoy!