In a bold move amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has now reportedly chartered four jetliners to repatriate approximately 1,500 Jewish-Americans who were stranded in Israel.
The evacuees, primarily participants in a ten-day Birthright Israel trip, had been relocated to Larnaca, Cyprus, aboard an Israeli cruise vessel, with protection from the Israeli Navy.
As conflict erupted last week, these Americans sought safety away from the violence. DeSantis’s decision to arrange for their return underscores a proactive approach to assist citizens during international crises.
The chartered flights are set to transport the evacuees back to Tampa, Florida.
“The remainder of the 2,800 international participants who were in Israel when war broke out have chosen to depart via other means or opted to remain with family,” reported the Jerusalem Post, highlighting the varied responses to the unfolding situation.
Joy Prevor, vice president of projects for the Broward Jewish Federation, praised the governor’s efforts, noting that the organization had been in close contact with the Israeli consulate throughout the evacuation process.
“We are hopeful anyone who needs to get out will get out, but it is being done in a staged fashion,” she said, acknowledging the stress experienced by those involved.
DeSantis’s involvement in this humanitarian effort follows a previous airlift he ordered in October 2023, which successfully brought home another 200 Americans after a deadly Hamas attack that killed over 1,200 people, including at least 30 Americans.
At that time, he also dispatched two large planes carrying critical medical supplies, emphasizing Florida’s commitment to supporting Israel during times of need.
As the situation continues to evolve, DeSantis’s charter flights symbolize not only a logistical operation to assist stranded citizens but also a broader commentary on the role of state leadership in responding to international crises.
[READ MORE: Former Senator Menendez Reports to Prison]
