[A CA Guy]

I agree, anything flying or floating will probably get taken out by forced connected to Iran who will blame Hezbollah or the Jews.

I can't think of a secure way out.

[jch10]

I would think that State would have to have assurances from Lebanon that the evacuators and evacuees would be safe before they made any moves. Evidently, France, Italy, and others, are allies to that bunch and got immediate action on their requests. They will wait as long as possible to make the US look bad, at home and abroad.
I pray for the evacuees but know that the govt is doing all it can, as quickly as it can. It is not to their advantage to appear sluggish and inept at this point.
There is also the problem of making sure no terrorists slip in with the evacuees. Passports and personal records must be verified....try that for 25,000 people....not so easy,huh?

[VeniVidiVici]

I can't think of a secure way out.

There is no secure way out. One of the hazards when traveling to that part of the world.

I have an Iranian friend that goes back to Iran from time to time. I keep telling him he's nuts.

I'd go on a tour/business over there as long as they'd let me carry firearm. Since that'll never happen I keep discovering America.