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State Department Bypassed Military in Middle East Evacuation Operation

The State Department did not request assistance from the U.S. Transportation Command during Middle East evacuation operations following the Iran conflict outbreak earlier this year, according to military correspondence reviewed by lawmakers.

TRANSCOM relocated more than 1,500 individuals affiliated with the State Department, according to a May letter responding to Senator Elizabeth Warren's inquiry. However, the command stated it received no directive to move American civilians unaffiliated with federal agencies.

Warren, the Massachusetts Democrat and ranking member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, had sought clarification on the evacuation's execution. She criticized the administration's response, contending that available resources were not fully deployed.

Americans in the region reported experiencing chaotic and confusing government communications during the initial conflict period.