Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has announced the successful completion of the first mission to bring nearly 300 Americans home from Israel. The evacuees were unable to return home due to commercial flight cancellations and were brought back to Florida through a partnership with Project Dynamo. More than 270 individuals arrived in Tampa, while seven were brought to Orlando.
Upon landing in Tampa, the evacuees were provided with access to resources from multiple state agencies, ensuring their smooth transition back home. In addition to facilitating the return of American citizens, Governor DeSantis also pledged to send medical supplies, hygiene products, clothing, and children’s toys to Israel to assist the impacted communities.
Governor DeSantis expressed his pride in the rapid response and activation of resources to bring Floridians and other Americans back home, free of charge, stating, “I am proud of how quickly we have been able to activate resources and do what the federal government could not.”
Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez also commended Governor DeSantis for his swift action in helping Floridians in Israel, stating, “Our administration will continue to work to safely bring Floridians home and support the people of Israel as they fight back to defend themselves.”
Consul General of Israel to Florida, Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received from Governor DeSantis and his administration. Elbaz-Starinsky stated, “We are very grateful for the special flights and supplies.”
Bryan Stern, CEO and Founder of Project Dynamo, praised Governor DeSantis for partnering with their organization to save every American in need. Stern highlighted the devastation in Israel and the heart-wrenching nature of the crisis.
Governor DeSantis signed Executive Order 23-208 on October 12, 2023, allowing the State of Florida to carry out logistical, rescue, and evacuation operations to ensure the safety of its residents. This order empowers the Florida Division of Emergency Management to bring Floridians home and transport necessary supplies to Israel.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management will continue to lead efforts for additional flights, transporting more supplies to Israel and facilitating the safe return of Floridians.
Governor DeSantis has also taken steps to ensure the safety and security of the Jewish community. He has surged law enforcement resources to prevent violence at demonstrations and protect Jewish schools and synagogues. The Governor has directed the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) to collaborate with the Attorney General’s Office to issue memos reminding law enforcement and Florida universities of their responsibility to protect the Jewish community from threats and unlawful harassment. Governor DeSantis emphasized that Florida will not tolerate hate or violence towards the Jewish community.
For any Florida citizens unable to leave Israel due to the current situation, a form is available at FloridaDisaster.Org/Israel to request assistance.
Governor DeSantis’s commitment to the safe return of Americans and support for Israel demonstrates his dedication to protecting the well-being of his constituents and maintaining strong alliances. Through effective partnerships and swift action, Governor DeSantis and his administration have successfully brought nearly 300 Americans home from Israel, reuniting them with their families during these challenging times.
Click this link to access more information: https://www.flgov.com/2023/10/15/governor-ron-desantis-announces-first-mission-from-israel-returns-nearly-300-americans-home/
