SF Woman Trapped in Dubai Warzone Pleads for Help

Lisa Thompson describes frightening situation as US urges citizens to leave Middle East conflict zone.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Lisa Thompson, a San Francisco resident living in Dubai with her family, is caught in the middle of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. She describes the terrifying sounds of drones flying overhead and the confusing and conflicting messaging from the U.S. government about whether she should shelter in place or try to leave the country.

Why it matters

The situation in the Middle East has escalated, putting American citizens like Thompson in a precarious position as they try to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape and determine the safest course of action for themselves and their families.

The details

Thompson says the sound of drones flying over her house in Dubai is 'really, really intense' and a frightening experience. The U.S. government is urging Americans to leave the region, but many countries have closed their airspace, making it difficult for citizens to actually get out. The White House has said it is working to charter flights to help Americans return home.

  • The conflict in the Middle East has been ongoing for several weeks.

The players

Lisa Thompson

A San Francisco resident currently living in Dubai with her family.

Dan Caine

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who stated the U.S. government is working to help Americans leave the Middle East conflict zone.

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What they’re saying

“The information we've received from the U.S. has been pretty poor.”

— Lisa Thompson (nbcbayarea.com)

“We've also opened up space available seats as C 17s and other airplanes come in to try to help folks get out.”

— Dan Caine, Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman (nbcbayarea.com)

What’s next

The U.S. government is continuing efforts to charter flights and assist American citizens in leaving the Middle East conflict zone.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the challenges and risks faced by American citizens caught in the middle of geopolitical conflicts abroad, underscoring the need for clear and effective communication from the U.S. government to ensure their safety and facilitate their return home.