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Lamar Today
By the People, for the People
Americans Stranded in Middle East Amid Escalating Conflict
Dozens of U.S. tourists and travelers unable to leave as airspace and airports close across the region.
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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Several Americans, including a group of 36 touring Israel and a father-daughter duo from North Carolina, have found themselves stuck in the Middle East after the U.S. and Israel launched surprise strikes on Iran, prompting retaliatory attacks. Flights have been canceled across the region, leaving travelers unable to leave as the conflict escalates.
Why it matters
The sudden outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East has left many American tourists and travelers stranded, unable to return home as airports and airspace are closed. This highlights the risks and unpredictability of traveling to the region during times of heightened tensions and conflict.
The details
The strikes began on Saturday when the U.S. and Israel launched bombardments on Iran, killing the country's supreme leader. Iran has responded with missile attacks on Israel and Gulf Arab states. This has led to the closure of airports and airspace across the Middle East, stranding an unknown number of American citizens who were visiting the region. Several Americans have shared their experiences of being trapped, including a group of 36 touring Israel and a father-daughter duo from North Carolina who were visiting holy sites.
- The strikes began on Saturday, March 2, 2026.
- Flights were canceled across the Middle East on Sunday, March 3, 2026.
The players
Susie
An Oklahoma City resident originally from Lamar, Missouri, who was part of a group of 36 Americans touring Israel when the bombardment began.
Chris Elliott
A father from Lexington, North Carolina, who traveled to Israel with his daughter Riley to honor her high school graduation.
Riley Elliott
A 17-year-old high school senior from Lexington, North Carolina, who traveled to Israel with her father Chris to be rebaptized in the Jordan River and walk where Jesus walked.
What they’re saying
“I am beyond scared.”
— Susie (Social media)
“I think we take our freedom for granted. When we get over here and we realize, you've got to look over your shoulder, and you have to jump into a bomb shelter every time your phone rings, man, it's really eye-opening.”
— Chris Elliott, Assistant youth pastor (WGHP)
“It's been crazy, I'm ready to come home.”
— Chris Elliott, Assistant youth pastor (WGHP)
What’s next
The Elliotts and their travel group are hoping to take a 10-hour bus ride to Cairo, where their travel agency is expected to fly them home, though it's unclear when flights will resume.
The takeaway
This situation underscores the risks and unpredictability of travel to the Middle East during times of heightened regional tensions and conflict. It serves as a reminder for Americans to exercise caution and closely monitor travel advisories when planning trips to the region.
