Trump administration faces criticism as thousands of Americans are stranded in the Middle East

Thousands of Americans are reported stranded in parts of the Middle East after an air campaign and subsequent Iranian retaliation, and lawmakers and diplomats have criticized the administration's preparedness and communication.

Thousands of Americans are reported stranded in parts of the Middle East after the U.S. and Israel launched an air campaign against Iran and Iran responded. The State Department issued travel advisories after the campaign began, and some travelers were unable to leave. Lawmakers and current and former diplomats have criticized the administration for planning and communication shortfalls. The situation has drawn attention to staffing reductions and gaps in consular capacity. Key developments: - Thousands of U.S. citizens are reported stranded in countries including Jordan, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates. - The State Department issued Level 3 "reconsider travel" advisories for several affected countries after the air campaign; some nations had earlier Level 4 advisories in place. - U.S. diplomatic facilities were evacuated or reported damaged, and the Defense Department and State Department say they are arranging military and charter flights to assist departures; the State Department reported it had assisted nearly 6,500 Americans. - Dozens of Democratic lawmakers and current and former diplomats have criticized the administration's planning and cited reduced State Department staffing and gaps in regional expertise as factors. Summary: The developments have left many Americans abroad and prompted criticism of the government's preparedness and messaging. Officials say military and charter flights are being arranged to help civilians depart, though airspace closures and operational limits affect movement. Undetermined at this time.