More than 1,000 Americans and their dependents have fled Lebanon on board US-chartered flights in the past week, arriving in Turkey for a temporary stay, the top US diplomat in Istanbul says, Al Jazeera reports.

“It’s the fastest, safest way to get Americans out of harm’s way,” Consul General Julie Eadeh said in an interview in Istanbul.

“The security situation is dynamic, so we have been planning for months for all contingencies. Given the airport in Beirut remains operational and open, our focus is on facilitating departures by air.”

Ten of 12 US-chartered flights from Beirut have arrived in Istanbul, carrying 1,025 citizens and immediate family members since October 2, according to another US official.

Those interviewed at the airport said they were shaken by bombings and feared for their lives.

“It’s not safe for her there,” Nadine El Shab said of the baby daughter she held in her arms, adding she would next travel to Michigan.