English transcript

At the Department of State our number one priority is the safety and the security of American citizens everywhere in the world.

Now with what's going on in the Middle East with Operation Epic Fury

and the cowardly attacks that we're seeing from Iran against Gulf countries,

I wanted to take this chance to speak directly to Americans who are in the Middle East

about the work we are doing to try to keep you safe.

So immediately following the beginning of this operation,

at my direction, the State Department activated a 24/7 task force,

surging personnel and resources necessary

to help provide American citizens with up-to-the-minute safety and security information.

Now in order to receive these updates from the nearest US embassy or consulate,

you have to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.

You have to register with STEP, and here's where you do it.

You go to step.state.gov.

That's step.state.gov and register so we can reach you.

We also encourage Americans abroad

to follow our security updates for US citizens channel on WhatsApp

and follow @TravelGov on social media as well.

The latest alerts are also available on travel.state.gov.

That's our website travel.state.gov.

Finally, Americans in the Middle East,

you can reach the Department of State 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at the following phone number:

1-202-501-4444.

That's 1-202-501-4444.