As violence escalates in Israel, the Florida government under Ron DeSantis is taking action by deploying four planes to evacuate around 1,500 Americans. These evacuees were welcomed aboard the Crown Iris, a Mano Maritime cruise ship, which transported them from Ashdod, Israel, to Ranalka, Cyprus. Many passengers were part of a program—Born Israel—designed for young Americans of Jewish heritage to visit significant sites.
Since the bombings from Iran began, Israel’s airspace has been closed. Upon arrival in Cyprus, Gidi Mark, the Israeli CEO, shared his relief at successfully navigating under immense pressure to bring these young Americans to safety.
DeSantis is highlighting these evacuation efforts, especially as more Americans land in Tampa. From Cyprus, he has arranged for four large aircraft from the Florida Emergency Management Department to continue returning Jewish Americans home. There’s also been notable involvement from local lawmakers and retired military members, like Republican Senator Jay Collins, who traveled to Israel to assist further evacuation efforts.
Earlier in October, following a devastating attack by Hamas, DeSantis dispatched planes to help evacuate Americans. He remarked on the inadequacy of the federal government’s response, particularly criticizing the State Department and Israeli embassies, claiming they were failing those in need. DeSantis compared this with the government’s ease in providing flights for illegal immigrants crossing the southern border, which highlights a stark contrast in response.
The operation has thus far successfully evacuated at least 300 individuals from Tel Aviv. Upon their arrival at Tampa International Airport, they were welcomed by DeSantis and Florida’s First Lady, Casey DeSantis. Florida boasts the third-largest Jewish population in the U.S., approximately 650,000, with many residing in areas like Miami Beach, Boca Raton, and Fort Lauderdale.
