Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has taken bold action to rescue Americans stranded in Israel during the escalating conflict with Iran. His administration chartered evacuation flights that brought hundreds of citizens to safety at Tampa International Airport, demonstrating decisive leadership where the federal government failed.
Governor DeSantis personally greeted survivors as they arrived on state-funded flights. He emphasized Florida’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad, calling this “the most challenging logistical mission” ever undertaken by the state’s emergency team. These rescue operations have already saved over 300 Americans with more missions planned.
The evacuation effort included coordinating a passenger ferry that rescued 1,100 additional citizens. DeSantis criticized the Biden administration’s inadequate response, noting that while illegal immigrants get free flights across America, stranded Americans received zero federal help. Florida stepped up to fill this dangerous void.
College students and Birthright Israel program participants were among those rescued after being trapped when missile attacks shut down airports. A cruise ship first moved evacuees to Cyprus before Florida’s chartered flights brought them home. This complex operation required navigating missile threats and closed transit routes.
DeSantis highlighted that this isn’t Florida’s first such mission—in 2023, he similarly evacuated Americans after Hamas attacks when federal agencies abandoned them. His administration partnered with Tampa nonprofit Grey Bull Rescue, which continues accepting evacuation requests through emergency forms.
With Florida’s large Jewish population, DeSantis stressed the moral duty to protect citizens facing Middle East conflicts. He slammed the Biden administration’s neglect, contrasting it with Florida’s rapid mobilization: “We sprung into action when others failed our people.”
The governor pledged to continue rescue flights while Ben Gurion Airport remains closed, declaring “this is an ongoing effort.” He welcomed other states joining but emphasized that Florida alone took the initiative when lives were at stake.
DeSantis’ actions prove that strong leadership saves lives, showcasing how states can protect citizens when federal authorities fall short. His administration remains ready to rescue every American stranded in war zones, putting safety before politics.
