State Department defends evacuation efforts amid empty planes accusations

1 articles · Updated · Fox News · May 4

Grey Bull Rescue's Bryan Stern and Republican Representative Nancy Mace said thousands were left in Israel as a March 8 Tel Aviv-Miami flight appeared mostly empty.
The department said it contacted every American who registered for help and that many declined seats, choosing to stay or book commercial flights with more flexibility.
Critics blamed bureaucracy and the lack of a dedicated evacuation post, as the department said more than 43,000 Americans returned since late February, including 30,000 directly assisted by government operations.

Bureaucracy or budget? What is the real obstacle preventing the U.S. from effectively evacuating its citizens from global crises?

As private rescuers face extortion claims, is reforming the State Department the only viable path to protect Americans trapped in conflict zones?